Global Recognition for India’s Efforts in Promoting Healthier Skin Practices

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A landmark for Indian dermatology was achieved in Liverpool on July 10, as the Royal College of Physicians (RCP), London, awarded a pioneering initiative by Kolkata dermatologist Dr. Koushik Lahiri. The Indian Association of Dermatologists, Venereologists, and Leprologists Task Force Against Topical Steroid Abuse (ITATSA) was one of only three global winners of the prestigious RCP Excellence in Patient Care Awards 2025.

Major Points of the Campaign

- ITATSA's project, A Crusade Against Abuse of Topical Steroid in India: A Silent Epidemic of Astronomical Magnitude, was chosen based on the impact and longevity.
- The campaign, which is in operation since 2014, has also drastically reduced the sale of steroid-filled fairness and antifungal creams since 2018.
- The investigations and public campaigns of the collective have identified the risks of steroid abuse, such as red skin syndrome and skin scarring in the long term.

The Individuals Behind the Movement

- Dr. Lahiri, founding chairman, represented ITATSA at the award ceremony.
- The central members are Dr. Arijit Coondoo (Kolkata), Dr. Rajetha Damishetty (Hyderabad), Dr. Shyam Verma (Vadodara), Dr. Rajeev Sharma (Aligarh), and Dr. Abir Saraswat (Lucknow).
- Together they have contributed towards educating the general public and medical community about the abuse of high-potency steroid preparation.

International Acceptance and Future Outlook

- The recognition places India's dermatology cause on the global map, with UK's Homerton Healthcare Trust and Croydon

University Hospital.

- ITATSA's frequent publication of study reports and campaigns is expected to influence regulatory reforms and safer skincare practices.

Source: Times of India