The two-day Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the European Federation of Allergy and Airways Diseases Patients’ Associations (EFA), hosted by the Malta Eczema Society in Malta, was a highly successful and impactful event. The meeting brought together experts, patient representatives, and key stakeholders to discuss best practices in eczema care, patient support, and advocacy across Europe.
The event also welcomed representatives specializing in allergy and respiratory diseases, encouraging a more comprehensive approach to addressing related health conditions. This multidisciplinary participation enriched discussions and promoted collaboration across different areas of healthcare.
Throughout the event, participants engaged in meaningful discussions, shared knowledge, and explored innovative approaches to improving the quality of life for people living with eczema. The presence of Joe Etienne Abela, Minister for Health and Active Ageing, further highlighted the importance of collaboration between patient organizations and public health authorities.
A particularly impactful highlight of the AGM was the presentation of a photo exhibition featuring individuals living with eczema, accompanied by their personal quotes. This exhibition offered powerful insight into the lived experiences of patients, helping to raise awareness and foster empathy among attendees.
Overall, the AGM served as a valuable platform for strengthening partnerships, exchanging expertise, and reinforcing a shared commitment to advancing eczema care and awareness both locally and internationally.
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Helping you since 2001
The Malta Eczema Society was set up in 2001 to help those with eczema and their families. The need for such a group in Malta, as found in other countries, had been felt for a long time. The society aims to help by providing support, information and practical advice via public talks and other activities and to increase awareness about eczema and the problems it may cause.
The Malta Eczema Society has also repeatedly lobbied the Maltese Health Authorities regarding entitlement for free medication for eczema sufferers. Until recently, patients with eczema, unlike those with other chronic conditions, were not eligible for any free medication for their condition no matter how severe and chronic it was because eczema was not included in the Schedule V list of chronic diseases. This was very unfair and discriminatory.
We are pleased to note that in 2021 the Schedule V list was amended to include patients with severe chronic forms of eczema. This was a big step in the right direction. However it is disappointing that new effective medications for severe eczema such as dupilumab and JAK inhibitors, which have been used in other countries for several years, are still not available in Malta. It is hoped that these will now become available here too. The MES will continue to insist that available funds should be utilised according to patients’ needs and that patients should not be discriminated according to which chronic disease they are unlucky enough to have. Eczema sufferers pay taxes like everyone else and should be given the assistance they deserve like other patients.
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People with eczema can enjoy a variety of indoor and outdoor activities while taking precautions to manage their condition.
Remember to moisturize before and after engaging in outdoor activities, and have your prescribed medications or creams on hand for any flare-ups.
Your specific eczema triggers and comfort levels may vary, so it’s essential to adapt these activities to your individual needs and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.