Rie Yotsu

Dr. Rie Yotsu, MD, MIPH, DTM&H, PhD, is an esteemed Associate Professor at the Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. With a robust background in dermatology and global health, Dr. Yotsu has dedicated her career to the study and management of skin infections and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) that impact the skin. Her pioneering work in the integration and control of skin NTDs has been instrumental, notably through her authorship of the first World Health Organization (WHO) document addressing these issues. Dr. Yotsu's research is deeply rooted in the fields of epidemiology and surveillance, focusing on the management of skin NTDs. She is particularly interested in leveraging digital health innovations to enhance healthcare accessibility in low- and middle-income countries. One of her notable contributions is the development of the 'eSkinHealth' app, a tool designed to improve healthcare delivery and access for underserved populations. In addition to her academic and research endeavors, Dr. Yotsu plays a significant role in the global health community. She serves as a consultant for the WHO, where her expertise informs policy and program development. Her editorial contributions to various scientific journals further underscore her commitment to advancing knowledge and practice in her field. Dr. Yotsu's work is driven by a vision of achieving universal health coverage, with a particular focus on advocating for "Skin Health for All." Her efforts aim to ensure that skin health is recognized as a critical component of global health initiatives, thereby improving the quality of life for individuals affected by skin NTDs worldwide. Her contributions to the field have not only advanced scientific understanding but have also had a tangible impact on public health policies and practices. Dr. Yotsu's dedication to her work continues to inspire her colleagues and students, as she remains at the forefront of efforts to combat neglected tropical diseases and improve skin health on a global scale.