World Psoriasis Day is on Wednesday this year. The day is celebrated on 29 October, which falls on the same date each year. People around the world celebrate the day to raise awareness of Psoriasis disease. This illness has many types, such as plaque psoriasis, guttate psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, inverse psoriasis, and erythrodermic psoriasis. It affects the quality of life of the diseased person, such as emotional distress due to the visibility of skin lesions. They might feel embarrassment or fear of being judged. In May 2014, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially recognized psoriasis as a serious chronic non-communicable disease through resolution WHA 67.9, highlighting its impact and need for better care.
Why is World Psoriasis Day Celebrated?
IFPA is an international federation of psoriatic disease associations that has supported the awareness day since 2004. Later, the WHO formally recognized World Psoriasis Day, passing a resolution to raise awareness about psoriasis.
Why do we need awareness? We need awareness because, despite affecting millions worldwide, psoriasis is still widely misunderstood. Many mistakenly believe it is contagious, leading to social stigma, discrimination, and isolation for the diseased.
Raising awareness helps to dispel these harmful myths and promotes a more inclusive and supportive environment. It also educates the public and healthcare providers about psoriasis as a serious systemic disease, not just a skin ailment, which is critical for early diagnosis and managing its associated health risks like heart disease and psoriatic arthritis.
Global Theme of World Psoriasis Day 2025
The theme for World Psoriasis Day 2025 is "Psoriatic Disease and Comorbidities – Understanding the Domino Effect." This campaign, led by IFPA, highlights that psoriatic disease is more than just a skin condition.
Psoriasis is a chronic, systemic disease with inflammation that can lead to multiple other health problems, known as comorbidities. This year, the focus is on the hidden connections between psoriatic disease and other serious conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and mental health challenges. These linked health issues create a "domino effect" on a person's overall well-being.
The campaign advocates for integrated, holistic care that looks beyond the skin. It emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, screening, and treatment to help #StopTheDominoEffect and improve the lives of people living with this condition.
What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a skin condition and can turn into a more serious problem if not treated. In this, your immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, causing them to multiply rapidly and form inflamed, scaly patches.
When this inflammation is not just limited to the skin, it is systemic, meaning it affects your entire body. As a result, when you’re diagnosed with psoriasis, you are at increased risk of developing several serious health conditions.
One of the most common is psoriatic arthritis, where inflammation extends to the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. Psoriasis is also associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack and stroke, due to ongoing inflammation.
Additionally, it is linked to metabolic syndrome, which includes conditions like high blood sugar, obesity, and increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The psychological toll of living with a visible and chronic disease can also lead to mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression, further impacting overall quality of life.
How to Identify the Signs and Symptoms of Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that speeds up the life cycle of skin cells, causing them to build up rapidly on the surface. The skin may feel dry, cracked, and itchy, and sometimes there may be burning or soreness around the affected areas.
The most common signs include:
- Red raised patches of skin
- Silvery-white scales (plaques)
- Visible on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back (or anywhere on your body).
In some cases, you might also notice:
- Thickened, pitted, or ridged nails
- Joint pain (indication of psoriatic arthritis)
If you notice any of these signs, especially if they don’t go away with basic skincare, it’s a good idea to see a doctor or dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
What is the Root Cause of Psoriasis, and When is Someone at a High Risk?
Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune disease. It rapidly turns over skin cells, which results in flaky, scaly, and crusty patches on the skin. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
You are at a higher risk of developing psoriasis if you have a family history of this condition. Other common triggers that may cause a flare-up or the initial onset of psoriasis are:
- Throat infections like strep throat
- Other infections, such as those related to HIV
- Studies suggest that obesity is a significant risk factor for the onset and worsening of psoriasis.
- Cold, dry weather can make psoriasis symptoms worse.
What are the Management Options for Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is an incurable disease, and it can only be managed with some specific techniques. You can consult with a dermatologist for a detailed management plan, so the itching and inflammation can be managed. Here are some common techniques the doctor uses to treat Psoriasis symptoms.
- Corticosteroids
- Vitamin D Analogues
- Retinoids
- Coal Tar
- Moisturizers and Emollients
- UVB Phototherapy
- PUVA (Psoralen + UVA)
- Biologics
- Oral Medications
Get advanced care for psoriasis and related skin conditions with our expert dermatologists.
Contact us to schedule your consultation.
How Does Artemis Hospitals Support Psoriasis Patients?
Artemis Hospitals in Gurugram offers specialized care for psoriasis through its Dermatology and Cosmetology Department. Our expert dermatologists use advanced treatments like phototherapy, biologics, and topical therapies, while also focusing on holistic care, including managing related conditions like psoriatic arthritis. We prioritize patient education and personalized treatment plans, helping individuals manage symptoms and improve their quality of life.
To book an appointment for psoriasis treatment with Artemis Hospitals, the Best Dermatology & Cosmetology (Skin Care) Hospital in Gurgaon, call or WhatsApp on +91 9800400498. Our representative will get in touch with you and book your slot with our specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is psoriasis common in India?
Yes, it is. Studies from India show the prevalence of psoriasis in adults can range from 0.44% to 2.8%. While a tropical country, its burden is significant, and the condition is 2X as common in males as in females.
Is Psoriasis a contagious disease?
No, psoriasis is not contagious. You cannot catch it from another person, as it is an autoimmune condition driven by internal factors.
Can Psoriasis affect children or only adults?
Psoriasis can affect people of all ages, including children. However, it is more commonly diagnosed in adults, with a typical age of onset between 15 and 35.
Is Psoriasis curable? Will it go away?
There is currently no total cure for psoriasis. It is a chronic, lifelong disease. However, with effective treatment, the condition can be managed, and many people can achieve and maintain long periods of remission, where symptoms are minimal or completely clear.
What is the best way to get rid of psoriasis?
The most effective approach is a personalized treatment plan developed with a dermatologist. This plan often combines medical treatments with lifestyle management to control symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
What are the latest treatment options for Psoriasis?
The latest and most advanced treatments for moderate to severe psoriasis are biologics, which target specific immune pathways to reduce inflammation. Other options include oral medications, topical creams, and light therapy (phototherapy).
What is the main reason for psoriasis, and who is at higher risk?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease. Its root cause is an overactive immune system that attacks healthy skin cells, causing them to multiply too quickly. You are at a higher risk if you have a family history of the disease.
What is the difference between Psoriasis and eczema?
Although both are chronic inflammatory skin conditions, they differ in key ways. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that typically causes thick, raised, and silvery-white scaly patches with well-defined borders. Eczema is an allergic reaction that causes an intense itch and often presents with red, raw, and sometimes weeping rashes in the skin folds.
Can diet changes help improve Psoriasis symptoms?
While diet is not a cure, adopting an anti-inflammatory diet can help manage symptoms. It is recommended to eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, and vegetables, while avoiding inflammatory foods like red meat and processed foods.
Is Psoriasis treatment available at Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon?
Yes, Artemis Hospitals has a Dermatology and Cosmetology Department that provides comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for psoriasis. We offer a range of services from topical medications to advanced systemic treatments.
Where can I find the best Psoriasis doctor near me?
You can find a qualified psoriasis doctor at Artemis Hospitals in Gurgaon. You can contact our patient services department directly via +91 9800400498.
