Helping Canadian Dermatologists Better Manage HS
Helping Canadian Dermatologists Better Manage HS
A Guide to Hidradentitis Suppurativa: Living with HS aims to help individuals with Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) to learn more about HS and how to effectively manage this condition. In conjunction with patients, this book is suitable for family members and friends of HS patients, as well as generalist healthcare practitioners who would like to increase their understanding of HS and the challenges associated with this condition.
Note: Deadline for application as of September 24, 2024
The Canadian Hidradenitis Suppurativa Foundation (CHSF) is offering travel grants for Canadian dermatology residents to attend the HS Academy from December 6-8, 2024, in Irving, Texas. Four grants are available, providing up to $1,250 in reimbursement.
The application deadline is October 23, 2024.
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a painful, long-term skin condition that causes abscesses and scarring on the skin. The exact cause of hidradenitis suppurativa is unknown, but it occurs near hair follicles where there are sweat glands, usually around the groin, bottom, breasts and armpits.
THE PAIN IS TO THE CORE, TO THE POINT WHERE IT IS DEBILITATING. AS A RESULT, I LEARNT TO LANCE MY LESIONS.
WE REALLY NEED MORE DISEASE AWARENESS AND SUPPORT.
Joshua
A PERSON LIVING WITH HS, SHARED
We couldn’t be prouder of the growing success of the Canadian Hidradenitis Suppurativa Foundation’s Higher Standards for Hidradenitis Suppurativa Deroofing Program — a national hands-on training initiative designed to equip dermatologists with the skills and confidence to perform deroofing in their own practices.
In 2024, the program launched with a weekend workshop led by Dr. Chris Keeling and Dr. Lauren Lam, welcoming dermatologists and nurses from across Canada — including Prince George, Kelowna, Kamloops, Red Deer, London, Toronto, and Scarborough.
Building on that momentum, in 2025, Dr. Jessica Asgarpour and Dr. Chris Keeling led the second surgical workshop in Toronto, where eight dermatologists participated in hands-on training.
Our goal is to reduce the burden on patients — especially those in rural areas — who often travel long distances for care. By training more providers across the country, we aim to improve access and outcomes for people living with HS.
We look forward to continuing this important work and hope to offer this program annually. Stay tuned for future updates and registration details.
Helene Veillette – President (Quebec), Lauren Lam – Vice-President (Alberta), Chris Keeling (Alberta) – Secretary/Treasurer, Susan Poelman – Past President (Alberta)
Pat Coutts (Ontario), Ralph George (Ontario), Danielle Marcoux (Quebec), Simon Wong (British Columbia), Helene Veillette (Quebec), Rochelle Tonkin (Alberta), Raed Alhusayen (Ontario), Marni Wiseman (Manitoba), Jessica Asgarpour (Ontario), Lima Hermenio (Ontario), Cathryn Sibbald (Ontario)
