A new support group for people in Cork with eczema is in the process of being set up.

Deirdre Ryan, who herself has eczema, is behind the move. Speaking to irishhealth.com, she explained that she felt there is simply 'not enough support' for those affected and such a group 'would be of great benefit'.

Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a group of skin complaints that can affect people of all ages on all parts of the body. Up to 800,000 people are thought to be affected. Atopic eczema is one of the most common types of the condition, leading to an itchy, scaly, weepy red rash. The prevalence of this type of eczema among children is thought to be as high as 20%.

The support group will be for anyone with eczema, as well as the parents of children with the skin condition.

Ms Ryan has been in contact with the dermatology unit in the South Infirmary-Victoria Hospital in Cork and has also distributed information flyers in GP surgeries and pharmacies in the area.

As its first event, the group is organising a bus to attend an Eczema Awareness Day, that is being hosted by the Irish Eczema Society in Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, on September 24.

Anyone who is interested in getting involved with the support group or who would like to book a seat on the bus for the awareness day, can contact Ms Ryan by phone at 087 206 4651 or by email at deirdrekilbarry@eircom.net.

For more details on the awareness day, see...http://www.eczemaireland.org

For more information on eczema, see also our Eczema Clinic at...

http://www.irishhealth.com/clin/eczema/