The International Society of Dermatology (ISD) stands at the forefront of advancing global skin health through education, collaboration and outreach.1 Established with a mission to bridge disparities in dermatological care worldwide, the ISD has become a vital hub for connecting the dermatology community, encouraging scientific exchange and promoting equitable access to dermatologic knowledge and services. Through initiatives such as mentorship programs, global education awards, community outreach and its official journal, the International Journal of Dermatology, the society is shaping a more inclusive and informed future for dermatology care.
In this Q&A, we explore how the ISD is addressing critical challenges in the field—from combatting skin cancer and misinformation to supporting the next generation of dermatologists— with ISD Board Member and Chair of the Communications Committee, Dr Mary Thomas. Dr Thomas offers insight into the society’s impact, vision and the powerful role international collaboration plays in transforming dermatological care around the world. Dr Thomas is an internationally respected dermatologist and founder of Central Alberta Dermatology, bringing over 20 years of experience and a global perspective to the evolving field of dermatology.2
Q. What inspired the creation of the ISD, and what gap did you see in dermatological education and outreach that you wanted to fill?
The ISD was founded with the mission to improve dermatologic care globally by sharing knowledge, enhancing professionalism and uniting the diverse international dermatology community. Recognizing disparities in dermatological education and patient care, particularly in underserved regions, ISD aims to bridge these gaps by fostering scientific investigation and facilitating collaboration among dermatologists worldwide. This approach ensures that advancements in dermatology are accessible to all, promoting equitable healthcare outcomes.
Q. The ISD aims to create social impact by advancing dermatological health—can you tell us how each part of your ecosystem contributes to this mission?
The ISD’s multifaceted ecosystem comprises several key components, each contributing uniquely to our mission:
- Mentorship program: This robust and longstanding initiative provides opportunities for members to enhance their dermatological knowledge and skills through observational fellowships lasting 4–6 weeks. Since 2006, over 160 dermatologists have benefited from this program, fostering professional growth and global networking.
- Global Education Awards: These scholarships support young dermatologists and residents from around the world, enabling them to attend international dermatology meetings hosted by or in collaboration with the ISD. By facilitating access to global educational events, the ISD promotes the exchange of knowledge and the advancement of dermatological practices.
- ISD Connection: Our official newsletter keeps members informed about the society’s programs and activities, featuring community dermatology projects and updates on global initiatives. This publication fosters a sense of community and disseminates valuable information to our members.
- Community dermatology initiatives and World Skin Health Day: ISD members actively engage in outreach programs, such as educational events and mobile skin clinics. We also collaborate with the International League of Dermatological Societies to celebrate World Skin Health Day on 8th July every year. This initiative, celebrated across the globe, encourages members and institutions to host free clinics and informative sessions for both patients and physicians alike.
Q. One of the ISD’s major goals is to eradicate skin cancer worldwide. How are your programs and partnerships helping to move the needle on this ambitious objective?
The ISD contributes to the global fight against skin cancer through education, research and collaborative initiatives:
- Educational initiatives: By offering mentorships and scholarships, the ISD ensures that dermatologists worldwide are equipped with the latest knowledge and techniques in skin cancer detection and treatment. I myself had the privilege to complete cutaneous oncology training through the mentorship program with our current ISD president, Dr Nellie Konnikov. This experience truly changed the trajectory of my career in a very positive direction.
- Research support: Our official journal, the International Journal of Dermatology, promotes scientific investigation into skin diseases, including skin cancer. The society also facilitates collaboration among international researchers and clinicians to increase awareness and promote research in this area.
- Global collaborations: Through partnerships with organizations like the International League of Dermatological Societies (ILDS), through World Skin Health Day and various other activities, we are constantly working towards raising awareness about skin health and promoting preventive measures against skin cancer.
Q. In a world where there can be misinformation about skincare, how is the ISD working to make trusted, science-based knowledge more accessible to both professionals and the public?
The ISD is committed to disseminating accurate, evidence-based dermatological information through various channels:
- Publications: The society’s official journal, the International Journal of Dermatology, provides a platform for the publication of cutting-edge research, recent developments in the management and treatment of dermatological conditions, and updates on programs, activities and community dermatology projects. This ensures ISD members have access to reliable information.
- Educational programs: Through mentorships, scholarships, and regional meetings, the ISD promotes the continuous education of dermatologists, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practices.
- Scientific meetings: The ISD organizes the International Congress of Dermatology every four years, as well as multiple Continental Congresses of Dermatology in various countries, to promote the dissemination of high-quality, evidence-based knowledge.
References
- International Society of Dermatology. Welcome to the ISD. Available at: https://www.intsocderm.org/ (accessed 11 April 2025).
- Central Alberta Dermatology. Discover the difference at Central Alberta Dermatology! Available at: https://www.centralalbertadermatology.ca/about-us/ (accessed 11 April 2025).
Further content in dermato-oncology and dermatological disorders.
Editor: Victoria Jones, Senior Content Editor.
Disclosures: This short article was prepared by touchDERMATOLOGY in collaboration with Dr Mary Thomas, utilizing AI as an editorial tool (ChatGPT (GPT-4o) [Large language model]. https://chat.openai.com/chat.) The content was developed and edited by human editors. No fees or funding were associated with its publication.
Cite: Mary Thomas. Advancing Global Skin Health: How the International Society of Dermatology is Bridging Gaps Through Education, Outreach and Collaboration. touchDERMATOLOGY. 11 April 2025.
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