WILMINGTON, DE — Incyte (Nasdaq: INCY) announced the launch of HS TRUTHS, an educational campaign aimed at increasing understanding of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can cause severe physical and emotional challenges for those affected.
The initiative seeks to move beyond traditional awareness efforts by sharing patient-led stories that highlight the daily realities of living with HS, including chronic pain, scarring, emotional distress, and years-long delays in receiving an accurate diagnosis. HS TRUTHS also encourages stronger communication between patients and healthcare providers to improve care outcomes.
HS affects an estimated 1% of the population, or roughly 1 in 100 people, and is characterized by painful nodules and abscesses that can lead to irreversible tissue damage. The condition most commonly appears in skin folds, such as the underarms, groin, buttocks, and beneath the breasts. For many patients, diagnosis can take seven to 10 years, leading to prolonged physical and psychological burdens.
“HS TRUTHS recognizes that each person’s experience is unique and emphasizes the importance of healthcare professionals engaging deeply with their HS patients,” said Parish Armstead, an HS patient advocate participating in the campaign. “Too often, campaigns miss the reality—we’re not just talking about bumps under the arms. We’re talking about chronic pain, lost relationships, and years of feeling dismissed. This campaign tells the whole truth.”
The campaign features personal accounts from individuals like Jasmine, Katelyn, Parish, and Ashley, whose stories underscore the impact HS has on nearly every aspect of life, from clothing choices to mental health. A recent survey revealed that 75% of HS patients experience negative emotions during discussions with their healthcare teams, underscoring the need for more empathetic and informed dialogue between patients and providers.
“Managing HS is inherently complex due to its multifaceted nature,” said Steven Daveluy, M.D., professor and program director at Wayne State University. “Campaigns like HS TRUTHS are invaluable—they bring real patient stories forward, helping us better understand the full spectrum of HS and how we can better support those affected.”
Incyte said the initiative reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting the HS community by fostering compassionate, informed conversations. Joslyn Kirby, M.D., executive medical director at Incyte, said the campaign is designed to amplify patient voices while addressing unmet needs. “With the launch of HS TRUTHS, we are bringing forward an honest, deeply respectful portrayal of the lived experience of people with HS,” Kirby said. “This campaign is shaped by patient stories that reflect the diversity, challenges, and strength of this community.”
Incyte said HS TRUTHS is part of its broader effort to improve awareness, promote early diagnosis, and support individuals living with complex and often misunderstood conditions.
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