Free Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU) Educational Resource for Healthcare Professionals Launches on epgonline.org

Tunbridge Wells, United Kingdom, June 22, 2015 --(PR.com)-- An online educational resource for healthcare professionals (HCPs) has just launched on epgonline.org. The Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU) Knowledge Centre is intended for allergists, dermatologists and other HCPs involved in the treatment and management of CSU.

Chronic Urticaria is thought to affect up to 1% of the population at any given time and, of these cases, two thirds are thought to be spontaneous (CSU) where the exact trigger for symptoms is unknown(1). CSU symptoms often have adverse effects on patients’ quality of life resulting in low mood, sleep disruption and lifestyle restrictions(2).

The Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria Knowledge Centre has been developed to increase awareness and understanding among primary care practitioners to ensure patients receive a correct diagnosis and the appropriate treatment or referral. It will also provide ongoing awareness of the condition and its treatment options for allergists and dermatologists.

The CSU Knowledge Centre can be accessed at the following address: http://www.epgonline.org/csu-knowledge-centre/. Once users have registered for free on epgonline.org, they will have unlimited access to sections on disease awareness, diagnostic tools, guidelines and treatment options, symposia highlights, a video channel and a resources section containing useful external links and an events calendar displaying upcoming CSU and dermatology-related congresses.

Toby Galbraith, Director of Content Strategy for epgonline.org, says: “There is a clear and current need to ensure that healthcare professionals recognise the symptoms of CSU and are able to carry out the necessary tests to ensure an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment strategy.” The CSU Knowledge Centre has been developed thanks to an educational grant from Novartis.

Notes to Editors:
· EPG Health Media (Europe) Ltd publishes www.epgonline.org, an independent website dedicated to providing healthcare professionals worldwide with free access to a comprehensive range of disease and medicines information. Categorised by medical specialty, content within epgonline.org includes a multi-language database of approved medications, treatment guidelines, clinical trial reports, journal abstracts, latest medical industry news, apps and a blog written by members.

· Novartis provides innovative healthcare solutions that address the evolving needs of patients and societies. Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Novartis offers a diversified portfolio to best meet these needs: innovative medicines, eye care and cost-saving generic pharmaceuticals. Novartis is the only global company with leading positions in these areas. In 2014, the Group achieved net sales of USD 58.0 billion, while R&D throughout the Group amounted to approximately USD 9.9 billion (USD 9.6 billion excluding impairment and amortization charges). Novartis Group companies employ approximately 120,000 full-time-equivalent associates. Novartis products are available in more than 180 countries around the world.

References:
1. Maurer M et al. Allergy 2011;66:317-330.
2. Kang MJ et al. Ann Dermatol 2009;21:226-229.