#USA #Chicago #Skin of Color Society #Skin of Color #Global Council

SOCS Global Council: Advancing Dermatology for Skin of Color

The Skin of Color Society (SOCS) has initiated a groundbreaking alliance with the SOCS Global Council, incorporating leaders from 22 esteemed dermatology organizations internationally. This innovative venture aims to enhance the field of dermatology specific to skin of color, prioritizing collaborative efforts to address unique challenges faced by diverse skin types.

Unified Mission

The formation of the Global Council emerges from a recognition of the necessity for improved quality in dermatologic care for patients with skin tones often underrepresented in traditional dermatology literature and research. Through cooperation among various dermatological societies, the Global Council intends to foster international collaboration, knowledge sharing, and educational opportunities tailored to skin of color.

Key initiatives will include:

• - Developing consensus statements regarding treatment evidence and associated risks for skin color conditions.
• - Offering guidelines aimed at enhancing patient care and promoting equitable practices across all member organizations.
• - Coordinating educational sessions, research collaborations, and events that collectively increase global insights and visibility for skin of color dermatology.

Leadership and Member Organizations

Under the leadership of co-chairs Dr. Zakiya Pressley Rice from Atlanta, Georgia, and Dr. Michelle Rodrigues from Melbourne, Australia, the SOCS Global Council encompasses a diverse network, including:

• - Asian Dermatological Association
• - Chinese Society of Dermatology
• - Indian Women's Dermatologic Association
• - Egyptian Society of Dermatology and Venereology
• - Caribbean Dermatology Association
• - And many more across Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

These organizations represent a collaborative spirit and a commitment to addressing disparities in dermatologic care worldwide.

Global Council Initiatives

Among the most important aspects of the Global Council's work is the concerted effort to develop evidence-based recommendations for dermatologic conditions that affect various patient populations globally. The Council's initiatives will engage in:

• - Establishing clinical guidelines that ensure regulatory compliance and access to information for diverse skin types.
• - Promoting participation in international conferences allowing for the presentation of cutting-edge research relevant to skin of color dermatology.

Notable upcoming conferences include:

• - IMCAS Americas, March 2026
• - Australasian College of Dermatologists, May 2026
• - Dubai Derma, September 2026
• - EADV Congress 2026, September 2026

Global Access Membership Fund

In its commitment to inclusivity, SOCS has also launched the Global Access Membership Fund. This initiative aims to reduce financial barriers for members in less affluent countries by implementing tiered membership dues according to World Bank classifications. Contributions to this fund help provide valuable educational resources and professional connections to dermatologists globally.

From Vision to Reality

The SOCS Global Council represents the culmination of years of collaborative efforts led by past presidents and current leadership driving towards the vision of global health equity in dermatology. Leaders such as Dr. Seemal R. Desai, Dr. Andrew F. Alexis, and Dr. Nada Elbuluk have orchestrated international collaboration and expanded SOCS’s global footprint.

Current president, Dr. Rebecca Vasquez, emphasizes, "The international dermatology community is encouraged to join our Council. Together, we can cultivate a network of knowledge and growth that translates directly into improved dermatologic care."

With the support of pharmaceutical and biotechnology innovators, SOCS is positioned to remain at the forefront of advancing skin of color dermatology, ensuring effective collaboration and representation across various organizations worldwide. To learn more, visit Skin of Color Society.