Eczema Society of Canada's annual lighting campaign returns to spotlight the realities of eczema
TORONTO, Oct. 30, 2026 /CNW/ -- November is Eczema Awareness Month, and Eczema Society of Canada (ESC) is partnering with monuments and landmarks across Canada to light up blue to "shine a light" on the need for greater awareness, understanding and access to eczema care and treatments.
Atopic dermatitis (AD), commonly known as eczema, and hand eczema are chronic inflammatory skin conditions that cause intense itch and flare-ups, and painful rashes that can crack, ooze, and bleed. The conditions impact sleep, work or school, mental health, and social relationships.
ESC's recent survey, The Burden of Eczema in Canada, captures the experiences of Canadians living with mild, moderate, and severe eczema:
- 65% report that their eczema impacts their quality of life.
- 54% report that their eczema impacts their mental health.
- 66% report they struggle to find a treatment that manages their eczema long-term.
"These findings reinforce that eczema is more than a skin condition. It is a chronic disease that can profoundly affect physical health, mental well-being, and quality of life," says Amanda Cresswell-Melville, Executive Director of ESC. "This November, landmarks across Canada will shine blue to raise awareness about the burden of eczema and the urgent need for timely diagnosis, improved care and equitable access to effective treatments."
"Eczema has affected every part of my life, not just my skin. Living with the condition took a significant toll on my physical health, mental well-being, and confidence. With the right treatment, I can sleep, work, and travel again, but eczema still shapes my choices every day," says eczema patient and long-time ESC volunteer Tristan.
To view the list of participating monuments that will be lit up blue throughout November to raise awareness, visit eczemahelp.ca/shiningalight. ESC invites Canadians to visit their local landmarks and share photos on social media using the hashtag #ShiningALightonEczema.
About Atopic Dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis (AD), the most common form of eczema, is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition. It is characterized by periods of dry, itchy, inflamed skin that can crack, ooze, and bleed. These periods of worsening symptoms are known as flares. It is estimated that 11% of children and 7% of adults live with AD.
About Hand Eczema
Hand eczema (or hand dermatitis) is any type of eczema that develops on the hands. It is commonly job-related and can be made worse by factors including frequent hand washing and exposure to chemicals. Hand eczema typically causes itchy, dry, scaly patches of skin that crack and flake.
About Eczema Society of Canada
Eczema Society of Canada is a registered Canadian charity dedicated to improving the lives of Canadians living with eczema. Its mandate is to provide education, support, awareness, advocacy, and research. To learn more, visit www.eczemahelp.ca.
SOURCE Eczema Society of Canada
For media inquiries: Hilary Lawton, [email protected]
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