Hidradenitis Suppurativa Foundation is a non-profit organization improving the lives of people affected by HS through advocacy, education and research.
Symptoms
You might call them boils, spots, or cysts, but those painful lesions that rupture and refill, found in places like underarms and groin and leaving behind scars, are called Hidradenitis Suppurativa. The look and feel of HS can change over time and be a little different for each person.
Causes
Dedicated researchers are hard at work determining what causes HS, but multiple factors such as a malfunctioning immune system, an imbalance of normal skin bacteria, hormonal fluctuations, genetic predisposition and lifestyle are thought to contribute.
Treatments
HS treatments aren’t one-size-fits-all, and that’s a good thing. With the help of a dedicated dermatologist, each of the factors that affect HS can be addressed alone or in combination to help you get relief.
Impact
Hidradenitis Suppurativa may first appear to be a cosmetic issue to the uninformed, but HS is painful and burdensome from the first stage to the most severe. HS was once thought to be rare, but it is now understood that between 1-2% of the population is living with HS.
Get the facts about Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS).
What is Hidradenitis Suppurativa?
HS is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes painful lumps that are often found in particular areas of the body, such as the underarms or in the groin and inner thigh, but can also happen on the chest, back, or butt. It is often mistaken for infected follicles, abscesses, boils, or cysts.
HS is more common than you think, just under diagnosed until now. The HS Foundation is committed to encouraging, supporting and celebrating people living with HS, while leading efforts for advocacy, education, and research.
Our Mission and History
People living with Hidradenitis Suppurativa are at the heart of our mission.
Research funding provided in 2023
Plain Language Summaries (PLS) Written
HS Specialty Clinics Listed
Attendees at SHSA Meetings