Lídia de Almeida-Voumard, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Agostinho Neto, Luanda, Angola
Skin diseases have only recently received more attention in Angola despite representing a considerable physical, psychological, professional and social burden across Africa. From 2007, a small group of dedicated Angolan dermatologists undertook to develop the discipline by founding the Angolan College of Dermatology and Venerology (CADV) and deploying a novel nationwide strategy. This work presents an overview of the local epidemiology of skin diseases and discusses the evolution of the discipline in Angola with particular regard to policies and institutional strategies, motivation of trainees and fellows, implementation of dynamic training programs and promotion of quality healthcare based on epidemiological priorities. It further highlights the role of the CADV in the promotion of the discipline and creation of partnerships. This has led to increased knowledge of the epidemiology, creation of training opportunities both in the capital and five regions, improved diagnostic and treatment facilities, promotion of clinical research and national and international networking. However, gaps still persist in all these areas exerting a negative impact on prevention, diagnosis and treatment of skin pathologies. The current challenge is to ensure the sustainability of the obtained results and ongoing actions at central and local levels, drawing lessons from the experience acquired to plan the next phase of development of the discipline.
Keywords: Angola. Dermatology. Skin diseases. Health services. Epidemiology.
