Tomorrow 29 October people with psoriasis will come together around the world, calling for understanding of the disease they live with.

Psoriasis is a severe, painful, chronic, inflammatory, noncommunicable disease, affecting over 125 million people worldwide. Up to 30% of them will develop psoriatic arthritis (an inflammation of the joints) and all run an increased risk of comorbid diseases like diabetes or cardiovascular diseases.

As yet, there is no known cure for psoriasis. On World Psoriasis Day, the global psoriasis community unites to celebrate its strength! In campaigning for improved life quality, the community is joined by a global network of psoriasis supporters, from family and friends to healthcare professionals, patient organisations and policy-makers.

This year’s World Psoriasis Day theme is “Breaking Barriers for People with Psoriasis.” The International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA), which is the driving force behind World Psoriasis Day, explains this choice:

“Over the past years, a lot has happened in the field of global psoriasis advocacy. The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially recognised psoriasis as a severe, chronic inflammatory disease through a groundbreaking resolution and Global Report on Psoriasis. IFPA members have also succeeded in forging active partnerships with national health authorities. This means we are better equipped than ever to make a difference for people with psoriasis,” says Lars Ettarp, President of IFPA.

“But we want to take things to the next level. On World Psoriasis Day, we want to fight prejudice, stigmatization and discrimination to raise more awareness, understanding and hope. By breaking down barriers, we help people with psoriasis gain access to diagnosis, treatment and improved life quality.” 

Read full press release by IFPA via the link below.