Setting research priorities for management and treatment of hyperhidrosis: the results of the James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership

Abstract

Summary: Background: Hyperhidrosis is a common skin condition characterized by excessive sweating, which can negatively impact on quality of life. It is under‐researched compared with other conditions of similar prevalence. Aim: To generate a Top 10 list of research priorities for the treatment and management of hyperhidrosis, with equal input from people with hyperhidrosis and healthcare professionals (HCPs). Methods: A priority setting partnership (PSP) was established and processes from the James Lind Alliance Handbook were followed. An online survey asked participants what questions they would like research to answer. These questions were grouped into ‘indicative questions’, which were ranked in a second survey of 45 indicative questions. The top 23 questions were then taken to a final workshop event attended by key stakeholders, and ranked to generate the Top 10 list of research priorities. Results: There were 592 questions submitted by 268 respondents for the first survey. For the second survey, 286 participants ranked the indicative questions in order of priority. At the final workshop, the Top 10 list was generated. The top three priorities were: (i) Are there any safe and effective permanent solutions for hyperhidrosis? (ii) What is the most effective and safe oral treatment (drugs taken by mouth) for hyperhidrosis? and (iii) What are the most effective and safe ways to reduce sweating in particular areas of the body? Conclusions: There are many unanswered research questions that both people with hyperhidrosis and HCPs would like to see answered. The results from this PSP will help to ensure future research funding can be directed to these areas of priority.