Leo Pharma Survey Reveals Profound Impact of Chronic Hand Eczema on Patients' Lives

Leo Pharma's recent survey of dermatology clinicians has shed light on the significant challenges faced by patients with moderate to severe chronic hand eczema (CHE). The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted treatments and highlight the condition's far-reaching effects on patients' physical, emotional, and social well-being.

Widespread Effects on Patient Well-being

According to the survey conducted by Ipsos on behalf of Leo Pharma, an overwhelming majority of dermatology providers report that CHE negatively impacts their patients' lives. More than 90% of the nearly 200 U.S. dermatology clinicians surveyed indicated that moderate to severe CHE affects patients' physical and emotional well-being.

The emotional toll of CHE is particularly striking, with 93% of clinicians believing it impacts their patients' emotional health. A similar percentage noted that patients feel self-conscious about their condition. Dr. Raj Chovatiya, founder and director of the Center for Medical Dermatology + Immunology Research, emphasized the psychological burden, stating, "The toll on their self-confidence and mental well-being can be overwhelming."

Professional and Personal Life Disruptions

The survey revealed that CHE significantly interferes with patients' daily activities and professional lives. A staggering 92% of dermatology providers reported that the condition inhibits their patients' ability to perform certain daily tasks, including typing on a computer. This limitation has far-reaching consequences, with 86% of dermatologists noting that CHE creates struggles for patients in the workplace.

These professional challenges can have long-term implications. About half of the surveyed clinicians agreed that CHE impacts their patients' financial situations and has caused career stagnation. One CHE patient highlighted in Leo's announcement described the potential impact on financial security as the "hardest thing" about living with the condition.

Beyond the workplace, CHE also affects patients' personal relationships. Nearly three-quarters of healthcare providers surveyed indicated that the condition impacts patients' friendships and romantic and familial relationships. Moreover, 68% agreed that CHE may prevent intimacy in romantic relationships.

Unmet Medical Needs and Future Prospects

The survey results come at a crucial time for CHE treatment. Currently, no specific medication for CHE has been approved in the United States, limiting dermatologists to prescribing general eczema treatments. However, Leo Pharma's delgocitinib cream, a topical JAK inhibitor branded as Anzupgo, is under FDA review. A decision is expected in the second half of 2025, potentially offering a targeted treatment option for CHE patients.

With an estimated 5% of adults affected by CHE, which can cause symptoms such as pain, itching, redness, blistering, and swelling of the hands and wrists, the need for effective treatments is clear. As Dr. Chovatiya noted, "Given that we use our hands for almost everything we do, chronic hand eczema can significantly disrupt patients' daily routines."