Skin disease lecture series launched.

The Accra-based African Commission of Health and Human Rights Promoters (known by its French acronym CAPSDH) has launched a series of fortnightly public lectures on the skin, its functions and the causes and treatment of skin disease in a bid to improve skin health and reduce the use of unsafe practices in the country.

Skin diseases account for one of the top five out-patient cases in most hospitals in Ghana according to dermatologist and CAPSDH president Dr Edmund N. Delle. The problems are caused by a combination of high humidity, insects and poor hygiene, but also by the frequent use of bleaching agents to lighten the skin. Many of these products have been dumped in Africa after being banned in other countries. Others are made locally from a range of natural and chemical substances including toothpaste, shampoo, milk, household bleach, cement and brake fluid.

The lectures aim to unpick the myths that underpin such harmful practices and present an alternative model for black beauty and skin care.

For information about the lectures contact CAPSDH, House No. 886/2, 14th Lane, Osu-Re, Near Danquah Circe, tel.

+233 (0)21 774526/778591/778592, info@capsdh.org.