The Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA) has declared July 2005 National hyperhidrosis "No Sweat" Education month to help increase awareness of this medical condition and the impact it has on quality of life.

The CDA will conduct a public relations campaign to help educate the public about hyperhidrosis. The objective is to generate awareness of hyperhidrosis and the negative impact it has on the patient's quality of life.

Approximately 300,000 Canadians have a severe form of excessive sweating known as hyperhidrosis. This affects work productivity, confidence, social comfort, emotional well being and wardrobe choices.

Studies show that hyperhidrosis impacts quality of life similar to or even greater than other well-known dermatological conditions, such as severe acne or psoriasis. It has also been shown that only 38% of hyperhidrosis sufferers talk to a health care professional about their condition. People rarely seek help because many are unaware that excessive sweating is a treatable medical disorder.

By implementing an educational campaign, the CDA hopes to educate the public about the role dermatologists play in treating patients suffering from hyperhidrosis. Visit sweatmanagement.ca for more information about hyperhidrosis. Hyperhidrosis brochures are available for your office. Email us at Sherlockcom@telus.net to request copies.