Eczema or atopic dermatitis occurs in 1 in 5 children under two. In people with eczema the skin barrier does not work as well so moisture is easily lost, causing the skin to dry out and be more susceptible to allergens and irritants.
Eczema causes redness and a desire to itch, which may result in broken and bleeding skin. It is common for people with eczema to have other allergies, suggesting that there is an inherited or genetic factor involved.
Thank you to Matthew Limbrey for raising awareness of eczema and funds for AIFA research by riding in the inaugural Bowral Classic bike ride through the Southern Highlands of New South Wales on 23rd October.
"Team Itchy & Scratchy Racing took on the best the Southern Highlands can offer, Matthew writes. "We raised money to help rid the scourge of eczema."
Matthew and his family are directly impacted by both eczema and food allergy so he has a passion for AIFA's mission to improve the health and care of people living with allergy.
Although eczema can be effectively treated and managed, there is no cure and more research is needed. If you'd like more information on eczema go to the ASCIA website here www.allergy.org.au/patients/skin-allergy/eczema
Show your support of Matthew and help him fundraise for AIFA at https://bowralclassic.gofundraise.com.au/page/MatthewLimbrey
Content updated 26 October 2016