Let’s Break the Cycle
of Atopic Dermatitis

The journey with atopic dermatitis can be filled with trial and error, and when treatments don’t work, the quest for relief often takes us back to square one. Researchers want to see if they can switch up that narrative, and you can play a leading role. Learn more about the SWITCH-UP Study today.

See If You May Qualify

About Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis (AD), often known as eczema, is a chronic skin condition that affects many adults worldwide. Characterized by discolored, inflamed, and itchy skin, AD can significantly impact the quality of life and overall health of those affected.

AD can be especially challenging due to its noticeable symptoms and discomfort, which can affect all areas of life. Through clinical research, we hope to better understand AD and find more treatment options for those affected.

Learn more about this condition below.

Did You Know?

Eczema is a broad term that describes a group of conditions causing itchy, red, and inflamed skin and affects approximately 10% of people worldwide. AD is the most common form of eczema. It typically starts in childhood and often continues into adulthood.

While AD is a chronic condition affected by both genetic and environmental factors, other types of eczema can be triggered by direct contact with irritants and have more immediate symptoms.¹

Quick Facts

In people with AD, the skin’s barrier function is impaired. This weakened skin barrier allows moisture to easily escape, leaving the skin dry and dehydrated. It also makes the skin more vulnerable to irritants, allergens, and environmental factors that can trigger inflammation and symptoms.^{2, 3}

In 2006, researchers found that certain changes in the filaggrin gene can make people more likely to develop AD. The filaggrin gene provides instructions for making a protein that helps maintain the skin’s protective barrier.⁴

About 85% of people with AD describe itching as their most distressing symptom. It is also common to experience sore or painful skin and poor sleep caused by itching.²

Triggers and environmental factors include:⁵

Cleaning products

strong soaps and detergents

Allergens

dust mites, pet dander, pollen, certain foods

Climate

extreme changes in temperature and humidity

Certain materials

wool, polyester, latex

Stress

Anxiety and stress are common triggers that can cause AD to flare up, which can result in a vicious cycle where the flare-up itself causes more stress.

Dry skin

Moisturizers help repair and support the skin barrier, reducing the risk of flares and itching.

AD can significantly affect daily life, but we can impact the future of AD management through clinical research. Doctors and researchers are working tirelessly to find treatment options to help those living with AD. Learn more about research aiming to help manage AD and its symptoms and see if the SWITCH-UP Study is right for you.

See If You May Qualify

Sources:

¹ https://nationaleczema.org/research/eczema-facts/

² https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/types-of-eczema/atopic-dermatitis/

³ https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/atopic-dermatitis

⁴ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35628125/

⁵ https://nationaleczema.org/eczema/causes-and-triggers-of-eczema/