UCB Launches Clothing Program for Chronic Skin Conditions
The program provides tailored shirts to help patients manage the visibility of symptoms associated with inflammatory disease.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Arthritis
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UCB has launched a new program providing free, specially designed T-shirts to patients in the U.S. living with inflammatory conditions including hidradenitis suppurativa, plaque psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis. The initiative aims to help patients manage daily comfort and reduce the visibility of symptoms through collaboration with a professional designer.
Why it matters
Chronic skin and joint conditions often come with visible symptoms that can contribute to significant social stigma for millions of Americans. By incorporating patient-led design choices, this initiative attempts to address both the physical manifestations of these diseases and the psychological impact of living with them.
This program serves an estimated 2.5 million U.S. patients with hidradenitis suppurativa and 11.3 million with plaque psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis. Participation requires patients to share personal stories to receive the items, with the project set to run through 2027.
The players
UCB
A global biopharmaceutical company that focuses on treatments for immunology and neurology, including therapies for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
Sophia Yeshi
A professional graphic designer who collaborated with patients to incorporate functional features into the clothing designs.
The details
The apparel collection was developed by graphic designer Sophia Yeshi, who consulted with four patients to address specific functional needs. For those with hidradenitis suppurativa, the shirts are black to mask drainage staining, while shirts for those with plaque psoriasis are white to hide skin flaking. Participants access these garments by submitting audio or video narratives about their personal health journeys through a dedicated online portal.
Timeline
October 2026: Program launch
2027: Program conclusion
Health Landscape
This initiative reflects a broader shift toward integrating patient-reported lived experiences into the standard of care for inflammatory diseases. It highlights an evolving approach that addresses not only symptom management but also the social and psychological challenges that accompany chronic conditions.
If you are managing hidradenitis suppurativa, plaque psoriasis, or psoriatic arthritis, this initiative offers a resource to support your daily comfort. Discuss with your doctor how managing the visibility of symptoms may impact your personal experience of living with your condition.
The takeaway
Chronic conditions like psoriatic arthritis can create daily challenges that extend beyond physical pain to social stigma. If you are struggling with the emotional toll of your condition, talk to your healthcare team about supportive resources or patient advocacy groups that can help you navigate your diagnosis.
What happens next
The program is scheduled to continue through 2027.
Further reading
For more on living with inflammatory conditions, explore our Arthritis section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by MediaPost.
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