Sanofi Publishes White Paper on 'Atopic Dermatitis Patients and Employment'

Sanofi K.K. announces the publication of its white paper, 'Atopic Dermatitis Patients and Employment,' which investigates the impact of atopic dermatitis on job hunting, employment, and career development. This survey was conducted with 400 employed individuals with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis and 400 general employed individuals.

This white paper aims to promote understanding in the workplace and society by visualizing how atopic dermatitis affects not only skin symptoms but also 'working' and 'life planning.' The results of the survey revealed that atopic dermatitis has a long-term impact on patients' lives, creating challenges at each stage of job hunting, workplace life, and career progression.

## 'Atopic Dermatitis Patients and Employment' White Paper: Executive Summary
1. Over 70% of atopic dermatitis patients develop the condition by elementary school, revealing that many face its symptoms from a young age for a long period, impacting various work-related situations including job hunting, workplace environment, and career development.
2. About half of the patients who had symptoms during their job search responded that it 'affected their job hunt.' It was also suggested that they enter the workforce with 'invisible burdens' not easily captured by data, such as efforts to hide symptoms and job hunting based on workplace environment criteria, in addition to being conscious of their appearance.
3. More than half of the patients have experienced an impact on their work. In addition to practical effects like 'decreased concentration' and 'reduced work efficiency,' over 80% have experienced worsening symptoms due to work-related stress, revealing a situation where they work while bearing both psychological and physical burdens.
4. Regarding support in the workplace, about 80% responded 'none/don't know,' highlighting the challenge of creating an environment that supports both treatment and employment.
5. Despite these challenges, 95.8% of patients feel they 'want to change' their atopic dermatitis situation in their daily lives, and about 70% indicated a willingness to switch to molecular targeted drugs. On the other hand, about 85% of patients with moderate-to-severe conditions responded that they 'do not know' or 'do not know in detail' the features of molecular targeted drugs, indicating the importance of providing information on new treatment options and improving access.

Dr. Akiko Yagami, Center Director/Professor at the Comprehensive Allergy Center, Fujita Health University Bantane Hospital, stated:
'This survey result highlights the severity of the impact that atopic dermatitis has on patients' lives. Many people develop it from childhood and are affected for many years throughout their job search and overall career development. I believe that providing appropriate treatment information for atopic dermatitis and promoting understanding throughout society will lead to a society where patients can continue to work as themselves without being controlled by their symptoms.'

Ms. Narumi Tano, representative of the Osaka Sayama Food Allergy and Atopy Circle 'Smile・Smile,' stated:
'These survey results are the very reality that atopic dermatitis patients and their families feel every day. By showing the reality of the 'invisible burden' that patients face regarding employment, I hope it will be an opportunity for many people to become aware. Atopic dermatitis is by no means a problem for the patient alone. Families also worry and walk together in support. This disease is an issue that society as a whole must address. The wish of us patient families is 'awareness' and 'understanding' from those around us. I believe that the spread of such support will lead to the creation of an environment where everyone can work with peace of mind.'

For those who wish to receive the 'Atopic Dermatitis Patients and Employment' white paper with more detailed results, please contact the Sanofi Public Relations Department.

## Survey Overview
- Survey Method: Internet survey (Ipsos)
- Survey Region: Nationwide
- Survey Period: April 16-22, 2026
- Valid Responses: 800 (400 patients, 400 general workers)
- Respondents:
- Patients: Employed individuals with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (POEM score of 8 or higher), N=400 (ages 20-50s, 200 male, 200 female)
- General Workers: Individuals not diagnosed with atopic dermatitis, N=400 (ages 20-50s, 200 male, 200 female, of which 100 have a partner/spouse with atopic dermatitis)

## Excerpts from the 'Atopic Dermatitis Patients and Employment' White Paper Survey

### About 70% Develop by Elementary School
When patients were asked, 'When did you first develop atopic dermatitis?', 54.3% said 'Before elementary school' and 19.3% said 'During elementary school,' totaling about 70% who developed it by that age.

### Presence and Impact of Atopic Dermatitis Symptoms during Job Hunting
When patients were asked, 'Did you have symptoms of atopic dermatitis (such as appearance or itching) during your job search?', 69.8% answered 'Yes.' Among those who had symptoms, 47.7% responded that they 'felt it had an impact.'

### Impact on Work
When patients were asked, 'Have you experienced atopic dermatitis affecting your work?', more than half ('Often' 16.0%, 'Sometimes' 43.5%) had experienced an impact. Specific effects included 'Decreased concentration' (65.1%), 'Decreased work efficiency' (43.3%), and 'Lost confidence/motivation for work' (25.6%).

### Impact of Work on Atopic Dermatitis
When patients were asked, 'Has work stress ever worsened your atopic dermatitis?', over 80% ('Often' 35.5%, 'Sometimes' 48.5%) had experienced it. Over 80% also felt anxious at work, citing 'Anxiety about appearance, such as flaking skin, rough skin, or bleeding' (70.3%) and 'Anxiety that irritability or low mood due to itching might affect workplace relationships' (53.8%).

### Support in the Workplace Environment
When patients were asked, 'Does your company provide support for employees with atopic dermatitis?', the combined responses of 'No' (79.0%) and 'Don't know' amounted to about 80%, revealing a lack of support.