Innovating and collaborating in immuno-dermatology: a dialogue with UCB’s Simon Lucas & Camille Lee

The 2024 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting takes place this week, in San Diego, California. We sat down with Simon Lucas, Global Head of Immuno-Dermatology, UCB, and Camille Lee, Head of U.S. Immunology, UCB, to learn more about UCB’s presence at the meeting and to hear their perspectives on the future of immuno-dermatology.

What can you tell us about the AAD Annual Meeting?

Camille – The 2024 AAD Annual Meeting is a highly anticipated event in the immuno-dermatology calendar. Organized by the American Academy of Dermatology, it is a platform for leading experts to disseminate cutting-edge research. This year, approximately 20,500 attendees from over 100 countries will convene in person to hear the latest developments in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dermatologic conditions. UCB is a long-standing participant of AAD, and we are privileged to join the community again this year to stay up to date with the latest research and innovations.

Can you tell us about UCB’s presence at AAD 2024? 

Simon – At AAD 2024, we have a strong scientific presence, showcasing sixteen abstracts across three disease areas – psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis and hidradenitis suppurativa. Given the chronic nature of these conditions, and the need for treatment options that provide lasting relief, we are pleased to unveil new four-year data in moderate-to-severe psoriasis and 48-week data in moderate-to-severe hidradenitis suppurativa. 

Camille – In addition, delegates will have the opportunity to gain deeper insights into UCB’s portfolio at our exhibition booth. Healthcare professionals can also familiarize themselves with “Make HStory” our hidradenitis suppurativa disease awareness campaign that aims to bring more attention and awareness to this debilitating disease, as well as provide resources for HCPs and patients alike. 

What is UCB’s current focus in immuno-dermatology? 

Simon – We are focused on immuno-dermatological diseases characterized by substantial unmet needs.  We have a solid history of connecting patients’ needs to innovative science and ultimately delivering new treatment options. Our mission is to deliver options and support that raise the standard of care, and we’re proud of our achievements so far. Our work is proceeding at a rapid pace. Recognizing that our aspirations cannot be realized alone, we actively collaborate with the community to advance our common goals. By working together today, we hope to improve the lives of more people living with immuno-dermatological conditions today and into the future.

How is UCB demonstrating its commitment to the community?

Camille – We are lucky to have a highly passionate team that is motivated each day by our company ethos “Inspired by patients. Driven by science.” Despite recent advances in therapy, people living with immuno-dermatological conditions still face significant unmet needs. That is why alongside our focus on developing new treatments, we partner and support causes that are important to the community. In the U.S., for example, our support of The HS Coalition, a leading group of patient advocates and healthcare professionals, showcases our commitment and how we strive to address disparities and improve outcomes in hidradenitis suppurativa. In addition, our collaboration with advocacy groups enables us to gain real-world insights that we use to help improve the lives of people with immuno-dermatologic diseases.

What do you envision for the future of immuno-dermatology? 

Simon – We are in a significant era of scientific advancement in immuno-dermatology, where ground-breaking research is deepening our understanding of the skin immune response. The future is bright with science, innovation, and collaboration driving rapid advancement. With our existing portfolio and ongoing research in new disease areas and populations, UCB is proud to contribute and reinforce our commitment to the community.

Do you have a final message for delegates attending the meeting?

Camille – Patients are at the heart of everything we do at UCB and this year’s meeting offers an exciting opportunity to learn about the latest research, exchange ideas, and collectively shape the future of immuno-dermatology for patients. Through our work with those living with psoriasis and HS, we know that patients continue to need more support in managing their condition. We are excited to engage with attendees about how UCB can continue to help people living with immuno-dermatologic conditions. If you plan to attend, we invite you to visit our exhibition booth or join us at our scientific symposium. We look forward to connecting with you in San Diego. Safe travels!

UCB has a proven heritage in immunology. We harness evidence-based science to deliver solutions and services that address persistent unmet needs across the healthcare ecosystem. By leveraging data, technology, and innovative scientific research we aim to improve the lives of people living with these diseases.