Wold Psoriasis Day takes place on the 29th of October. It is an international campaign that aims to educate and raise attention to this chronic disease. It is a day dedicated to the millions of people who suffer from Psoriasis. In 2018, it was estimated that 125 million people suffered from it.

Psoriasis causes inflammation, skin redness and scaly skin, which can lead to itchiness and pain. This happens because new skin cells are produced at a faster rate than normal. Normally, psoriasis appears on the knees, elbows, and scalp, but it can emerge in any other place. This disease is cyclical, which means it comes and goes.

There are different types of psoriasis. The plaque psoriasis is the most common. There is no cure for this disease, there are only treatments that help control the symptoms. Certain foods, such as green leafy vegetables, spices/herbs, and fruits can also help in controlling it. Losing weight can also decrease psoriasis symptoms. It is still unsure what exactly causes psoriasis, but it is known that genetics, previous cases of a skin infection, stress, medication, and obesity can have some influence on it.

Psoriasis has different levels, it can be mild, moderate or severe. It all depends on the extent of area affected and how it impacts the patient’s life. Moderate or severe psoriasis can lead to other problems. Both can increase the risk of developing psoriasis arthritis, a condition that causes joint pain and can damage them. Psoriasis can also lead to the development of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Research from the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology in 2017, concluded that severe psoriasis affects more men than women.

Psoriasis’ symptoms can be very visible on the skin, which can affect self-esteem, body image and lead to emotional problems. Many patients who have the disease also suffer from anxiety or even depression due to it. A study conducted by Ersin Aydin from 2016 confirmed this tendency. It showed that patients with psoriasis suffer more from low self-esteem and high levels of anger.

There are conducts we can adopt to support people with psoriasis and help psoriasis associations, just like spreading information about the disease, organising events to support and raise awareness about it or even get in touch with associations to understand which activities will take place on Wold Psoriasis Day.

References:

1. Psoriasis, Mayo Clinic
2. WORLD PSORIASIS DAY, International Federation of Psoriasis Associations
3. Psoriasis, Patient