Ana M. Duarte, M.D., a Miami dermatologist, is one of four physicians working this summer to raise funds for dermatologic research in the southern part of Florida. Dwindling support from the federal government and the harsh economic climate currently threaten dermatology’s ability to pursue advancements in patient care as it has over the past several decades. Dr. Duarte is one of nearly 200 volunteers who will be contacting their fellow physicians as part of the Dermatology Foundation’s (DF) 2009 national campaign to increase awareness of the growing financial barriers to research and to increase financial support.

Physician donations are an important source of support for research—especially when others begin to wane. By contributing, dermatologists take an active role in ensuring their patients have access to the latest improvements in care. More information and better treatments for the full range of dermatologic conditions are needed, and can only be found through continuous scientific investigation.

The Dermatology Foundation (DF) is the specialty’s leading private source of research dollars. Its role is to provide funding that will ultimately enable dermatologists to provide the best possible skin, hair and nail care, and to help develop tomorrow’s teachers and investigators in dermatology. DF supported research has been used to gain a greater understanding of disorders such as alopecia, melanoma (skin cancers), psoriasis, vitiligo and acne. For more information about the DF, visit www.dermatologyfoundation.org.