The first Pacific Islands International Dermatology Conference
The first Pacific Islands International Dermatology Conference
Representatives from Pacific Leprosy Foundation were invited to attend the inaugural Pacific Islands Dermatology Conference held in Suva, Fiji from 18th to 19th June.
Under the theme “Advancing Skin Health for Pacific Communities,” the conference brought together dermatologists, clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and trainees from across the Pacific and around the world. Delegates representing more than 26 countries joined to share expertise, present new research, and strengthen partnerships aimed at improving skin health across the region.
Our General Manager, Jill Tomlinson, was asked to speak about the history of leprosy in the Pacific and the current situation (and was featured on the Fiji TV News). We were particularly proud that four recipients of our Brian MacMahon Scholarship (for studying dermatology at Fiji National University) were able to attend and contribute to the conference to represent Kiribati (Dr Temea Bauro), the Solomon Islands (Dr Judith Foukona and Dr Joseph Sangatu) and Fiji (Dr Alma Ulufonua).
The establishment of skin clinics in the Pacific has great importance for our work. Leprosy most usually first presents with skin lesions and the ability to be able to attend a specialist skin clinic is a great relief for possible leprosy patients. Even in this day and age, stigma and discrimination mean that nobody really wants to be seen attending a dedicated leprosy clinic, and in fact it may not even occur to the potential patient that they have contracted leprosy. To be seen by a medical team who are welcoming, non-judgmental, well informed and able to treat a wide range of skin complaints is a great advantage for patients and a major step forward in the eradication of leprosy.
