Psoriasis Awareness Month: Be the Voice of 125 Million People With Psoriasis

August brings with it more than just warm weather and sun-kissed days. It marks a significant month of awareness and support for those grappling with a persistent skin ailment – psoriasis. The Psoriasis Awareness Month, observed worldwide, endeavors to provide solace to those affected, increase public awareness, and foster a deeper comprehension of this intricate disease. Dermatologist Dr. Stephen Lewis elucidates, "Psoriasis, a chronic skin disorder, manifests as an inflamed, pruritic, scaly rash, often making its presence felt on areas like knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp." Diverse in its manifestations, this ailment can surge for limited periods, varying from weeks to months. However, its impact can extend beyond the skin, triggering joint inflammation and discomfort termed psoriatic arthritis (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
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Fundamentals of Psoriasis Month

At its core, Psoriasis Awareness Month holds two fundamental objectives:

Providing a Supportive Haven for Psoriasis Patients

: The journey of those navigating psoriasis can often be lonely and taxing. This month shines a spotlight on fostering a nurturing environment, offering a sense of camaraderie and understanding to individuals living with psoriasis.

Elevating Public Awareness and Understanding

: Education is pivotal in dismantling misconceptions surrounding psoriasis. This awareness month aims to enlighten the general populace about the intricacies of the condition, fostering empathy and knowledge.

Facts and Stats About Psoriasis

As we delve into the realm of psoriasis, a cascade of illuminating facts unfolds:

Psoriasis's Global Impact

: The National Psoriasis Foundation reveals that more than 8 million individuals in the United States and a staggering 125 million worldwide are grappling with psoriasis. However, despite its prevalence, a definitive cure remains elusive, underscoring the complexity of the disease.

The Psoriatic Arthritis Connection

: Alarming data indicates that approximately 30 percent of those with psoriasis inevitably develop psoriatic arthritis. This debilitating condition takes the ailment beyond skin deep, causing joint inflammation and compounding the challenges faced by patients.

Influence on Quality of Life

: Psoriasis wields a differential impact on different segments of society. Research indicates that women and younger patients are disproportionately affected, highlighting the need for tailored support and resources for these demographics.

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Confluence of Comorbidities

: Psoriasis's influence is not confined to the skin. Individuals burdened with this ailment are more susceptible to a range of comorbidities, including cardiovascular diseases, heart attacks, strokes, metabolic syndrome, and even depression. This nexus calls for a comprehensive approach to healthcare for those with psoriasis.

Age-Defying Onset

: Psoriasis knows no age barriers, appearing across various life stages. Most frequently, it makes its debut between the ages of 20 to 30 and later resurfaces between 50 to 60 years. Psoriatic arthritis, a poignant companion, typically emerges between 30 to 50 years of age, although its onset can materialize at any time.

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Psoriasis Awareness Month arrives as an enlightening and empowering initiative, catalyzing a collective effort to comprehend and mitigate the challenges posed by this chronic skin condition. By rallying around those living with psoriasis, nurturing understanding, and enhancing public awareness, we inch closer to a world where the burdens of this ailment are alleviated, and those affected find solace in the embrace of support and knowledge.

“Embrace and love your body. It's the most amazing thing you'll ever own.”

Reference:

1. Psoriasis month - (https://www.moh.gov.sa/en/HealthAwareness/healthDay/2023/Pages/HealthDay-2023-08-01-31-002.aspx)

Source-Medindia