The Global Hidradenitis Suppurativa Atlas Methodology: Combining Global Proportions in a Pooled Analysis

Published in Dermatology in February 2024 by Dorra Bouzzai and colleagues, this article outlines the innovative methodology of the Global Hidradenitis Suppurativa Atlas (GHiSA) for estimating the global prevalence of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Utilizing a validated screening questionnaire followed by physician validation, the approach addresses limitations of prior studies by standardizing data collection and ensuring diagnostic accuracy. Ongoing studies across 58 countries aim to combine local prevalence data into a global estimate using proportional meta-analysis. This standardized methodology enables robust international comparisons, overcoming past heterogeneity in HS prevalence research.