We CU Launches to Empower Chronic Urticaria Community

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Feb. 3, 2025 - PRLog -- We CU, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering and improving the lives of individuals affected by chronic urticaria (CU), is proud to announce its official launch. CU, characterized by persistent hives and itching, significantly impacts the quality of life of those impacted and their families. One in four Americans will have hives in their lifetime; 1.7 million Americans live with a chronic form of this condition.

We CU aims to be a comprehensive resource for the CU community, offering support through awareness, education, advocacy, and research participation opportunities. The organization is committed to ensuring that patient perspectives shape innovation and treatment, fostering a collaborative environment between patients, researchers, and healthcare professionals.

"Chronic urticaria is more than just a physical condition—it affects every aspect of life, from emotional well-being to daily routines," said Kristen Willard, Acting Executive Director of We CU and a person impacted by urticaria for 30 years. "Our goal is to build a community where individuals feel supported, informed, and empowered to take control of their journey with CU."

Key Initiatives of We CU:

• Educational Resources: Providing up-to-date information on chronic urticaria, including treatment options and management strategies, to help patients make informed decisions about their health.
• Advocacy Programs: Championing change by raising awareness about chronic urticaria and advocating for policies that improve access to care and treatment options.
• Research Participation: Facilitating opportunities for patients to engage in clinical trials and focus groups, ensuring that their experiences and needs are prioritized in research efforts.

"Thanks to research advancements and advocacy efforts, there is now a better understanding of CU's mechanistic targets that have led to improved therapies and patient outcomes," said Dr. Jonathan Bernstein, CU Board of Directors member and Adjunct Professor of Clinical Medicine at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. "With ongoing progress in mast cell biology, several novel treatments will soon be available for difficult-to-control cases."

Tonya Winders, President of the We CU Board of Directors, added, "We CU is dedicated to providing a home for U.S. chronic urticaria patients—a place where they feel seen, heard, and supported. By connecting patients to vital resources, advocacy efforts, and researchers, we aim to bridge gaps and empower the CU community to shape the future of their care."

We CU invites individuals, healthcare professionals, and researchers to join their efforts in making a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by chronic urticaria. To learn more about the organization, find chronic urticaria resources, and receive the We CU newsletter, please visit https://chronic-urticaria.com.