The Dermatology Society of Namibia has created a platform for professionals in the field to showcase their work, share knowledge and solutions, and collaborate across fields.

This marks the second local Dermatology Congress, and participating skin doctor Niita Haitembu says the event has grown visibly to become an inclusive and welcoming space for dermatologists and general practitioners alike. 

Doubling the number of participants in just its second year, she says this feat underscores the Congress' success and appeal within the medical community.

"The aim of the congress really is just so we go through subjects of dermatology and different topics are presented by our colleagues who have studied certain topics that they want to present to us. We also invited our colleagues who are general practitioners, so it is not just for the dermatologist. It is hosted by the Dermatology Society of Namibia, and for us, this is really an achievement in the field of dermatology and in Namibia that we now have the Dermatology Society for Namibia."

Dr. Slan Hartshorne, who shared information on the condition 'Actinic Keratosis', said the condition, also known as solar keratosis, is characterised by a pre-cancerous area of thick, scaly, or crusty skin and is typically induced by exposure to ultraviolet light.

Warning signs include rough, dry, or scaly patches of skin, she said, suggesting a number of ways to treat it, including cryotherapy, topical creams, and gels like fluorouracil. 

As a general measure, she urged people to make use of sunscreen and avoid direct sun exposure as much as possible.