Regarding the earthquake centered in Kumamoto
At around 4:27 p.m. on July 28, 2026, a strong earthquake occurred in the Kumamoto region. A maximum seismic intensity of 7 was observed in the prefecture. Preliminary Japan Meteorological Agency figures reported a magnitude of 7.1 and a depth of approximately 10 km.
We extend our sympathy to everyone affected.
We hope patients, families and healthcare professionals in Kumamoto and across Kyushu are safe.
Further earthquakes have been observed in the area. Please check the latest information from local authorities and the Japan Meteorological Agency, and take care around aftershocks, damaged buildings and falling objects.
Please put your own and your family's safety first.
HS public seminar on August 2
On Sunday, August 2, 2026, the Nonprofit Organization for Transdisciplinary Research on Diseases (NOTRD) will hold a public seminar on hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Details are below.
The seminar will be held in a hybrid format, with in-person and online participation.
Painful swelling or recurring boils in the armpits, groin, buttocks or under the breasts
may be symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS).
Specialists will explain HS from the perspectives of dermatology and diabetes, metabolism and endocrinology.
The seminar may interest people who want to learn about HS, revisit their understanding during treatment, help family and friends learn about it, or ask about recurring skin symptoms.
It offers an opportunity to learn more about the condition.
Event details
Date and time Sunday, August 2, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. JST
Format In person and online
Admission Free
Venue TKP Garden City Premium Tokyo Station Marunouchi Central, Hall 12D
Marunouchi Central Building, 12F, 1-9-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Speakers
Dermatology perspective Dr. Koremasa Hayama, Nihon University
Diabetes, metabolism and endocrinology perspective Dr. Junko Sasaki, Tokyo Medical University
The seminar will explain HS from dermatology and diabetes, metabolism and endocrinology perspectives.
Advance registration required
Advance registration is required for both in-person and online participation.
Please visit NOTRD's official website for participation details and the registration form.
The format or content may change due to the earthquake or other circumstances. Please check the organizer's latest information before attending.
Seminar details and registration https://www.notrd.or.jp/
A message from HS Voices Connect Japan
HS symptoms are often not visible to others, and pain or drainage can be difficult to discuss.
Some people struggle alone for a long time, believing that recurring boils are simply normal for them.
We hope this seminar helps people learn about HS and consider discussing their symptoms with a dermatologist.
Patients, family members, friends and anyone interested in HS are welcome.
If you are in an area affected by the earthquake, please prioritize your safety and daily needs over attending or watching the seminar.
This event is organized by NOTRD, not HS Voices Connect Japan. This article reflects information available at publication. Check the organizer's website for current event and participation details, and official authorities for current earthquake information.
Open full-size flyerRead the flyer as text
Understanding hidradenitis suppurativa
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin condition with recurring painful lumps and drainage.
What is HS?
It often begins after puberty. Overseas estimates suggest about 1 in 100–200 people may be affected. HS can affect people of any gender and may persist for years.
This estimate is based on overseas data.
What happens?
Inflammation develops around hair follicles, causing recurring pain and drainage. Tunnels under the skin and scars may develop.
How is it treated?
Treatment may include topical medicines, tablets or injections. Starting treatment early can help limit progression and improve quality of life.
Do these symptoms sound familiar?
- Recurring boils in the armpits, groin, buttocks or under the breasts
- Painful lumps that may drain pus
- Pain when walking or sitting
- Symptoms that return in the same place
If boils keep returning, speak to a dermatologist early.
Living with HS
- Seek diagnosis and treatment.
- Continue treatment suited to your symptoms.
- Discuss lifestyle and weight management.
- Work with your healthcare team.
Public seminar: Understanding HS and systemic chronic inflammatory conditions
- Date and time
- Sunday, 2 August 2026, 14:00–15:30 JST
- Venue
- TKP Garden City Premium Tokyo Station Marunouchi Central · Hall 12D
- Format
- In person and online
- Chair
- Dr. Yukari Okubo — NOTRD · Tokyo Medical University, Dermatology
- Speakers
- Dr. Koremasa Hayama — Nihon University, Dermatology
- Dr. Junko Sasaki — Tokyo Medical University, Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology
- Co-organizers
- NOTRD and UCB Japan
For registration details, see the original Japanese flyer linked below.
