Skin Health Holds the Key to Early Disease Detection – Experts Say.
Prof. Dasetima Dandesun Altraide
Following Skin Health Day, observed on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, medical experts are raising awareness about the critical role skin plays in the early detection of health problems and the promotion of overall well-being.
Speaking in an interview, a professor of dermatology and chairman of the National Association of Dermatologists in Rivers State Dasetima Dandesun Altraide, emphasized that the skin is more than just the body’s outer covering. According to him, it is a vital organ that acts as the first line of defense against external threats and serves as a window into the body’s internal health.
“Skin can boost self-confidence and improve overall well-being,” Prof. Altraide said. “By taking care of your skin, you minimize the need for more intensive treatment later. It also helps us with early detection of health problems. There are manifestations we see on the skin that indicate conditions such as diabetes or thyroid diseases.”
He added that certain skin disorders, such as psoriasis, are no longer viewed merely as skin issues but are now recognized as systemic conditions linked to metabolic syndrome.
“We used to think psoriasis was only a skin disease, but we now know it’s a systemic disease. When we make a diagnosis of psoriasis, we also screen the patient for metabolic syndrome because of its deeper implications.”
In addition to diagnostic importance, Prof. Altraide noted that skin conditions can significantly affect self-esteem and social interaction, particularly when left untreated.
Also speaking, Mr. Alfred Robinson, a skincare specialist, stressed the importance of sun protection — not just when outdoors, but even while indoors. He urged the public to make daily sunscreen use a habit.
“Sun protection and a good skincare routine can help prevent premature aging, which includes wrinkles and dark spots. Even when indoors, the sun’s rays can penetrate windows and damage your skin, especially for people living with albinism,” Alfred explained. “For our climate, a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 is recommended. In fact, many professionals advise using SPF 50 or higher.”
Prof. Altraide also warned against the frequent use of UV lamps — especially those used for drying gel nail polish — noting that they can damage skin cells and potentially increase the risk of skin cancer.
He revealed that over 3,000 skin diseases affect more than 1.8 billion people globally at any given time, yet more than 3 billion people worldwide lack access to proper dermatological care.
