At UCB, our commitment extends beyond molecules, mechanisms, and data. Every study we undertake is rooted in the lived experiences of individuals navigating conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). We strive to drive meaningful change in HS by revolutionizing science, redefining care, and shaping a future where HS patients can live with humanity.

HS is a chronic, painful, and potentially debilitating inflammatory skin disease.^1-2 Common symptoms include inflamed nodules that look like boils, and abscesses.^1-2 HS can occur
anywhere hair follicles are found, but is commonly seen in areas like armpits, the groin area, and the inner thighs.^1-2 HS is not just a physical condition; it carries an emotional and social burden that often remains unseen.^2-3

Reflecting on our recent initiatives and patient engagement efforts, I am continually moved by the resilience and courage of those affected. Their willingness to share their stories inspires us to center patients in our research and initiatives, fueling our work with purpose and empathy.

Here are three ways we’re evolving patient insights into impact:

1. The UCB HS Summit was an enlightening experience, as we brought together clinicians, patients, caregivers, and advocacy groups for a day of shared learning. Each voice was unique yet united by a shared drive to create change. These types of events underscore the importance of UCB’s ongoing collaboration with the HS community to understand patient experiences, fostering empathy and acceptance.
2. Recently, our Make HStory collaboration with HS Connect’s “Find Us” campaign turned Times Square into a stage of empowerment. Watching individuals with HS walk the
   runway in custom gowns adorned with bold messages was a powerful act of defiance against stigma – and a celebration of resilience. It was a moment that demanded understanding and broke down barriers.
3. Building on this momentum, UCB is proud to have a strong presence at the Symposium on Hidradenitis Suppurativa Advances (SHSA) 2025 congress. SHSA offers a vitalopportunity to continue our collaboration and dialogue with healthcare professionals and patient advocacy leaders to advance HS diagnosis and care.
    

We carry the insights we gain into everything we do – from research and development to patient support programs, to medical education, to marketing strategies. Together with the HS community, we’ll continue to strive to make sure that people living with HS are seen, heard, and supported.
 

For more information about UCB’s commitment to HS, upcoming initiatives, and our latest treatment developments, visit https://www.ucb-usa.com/Disease-Areas/Dermatology.
 

For more information about Make HStory, visit www.makehstory.com.

References

1. Jemec GBE. Clinical practice. Hidradenitis suppurativa. N Engl J Med. 2012;366(2):158–64.
2. Sabat R, Jemec GBE, Matusiak L, et al. Hidradenitis suppurativa. Nat Rev Dis Primers.
   2020;6(1):18.
3. Ingram JR. The epidemiology of hidradenitis suppurativa. Br J Dermatol.
   2020;183(6):990-98. doi:10.1111/bjd.19435. Epub 2020 Sep 3. PMID: 32880911.

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