August is Psoriasis Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about psoriasis and supporting those affected by the chronic skin condition.
Psoriasis affects millions of people worldwide, impacting their physical and emotional well-being. The theme of Psoriasis Awareness Month 2024 is “Understanding and Empowering Lives,” which focuses on educating the public, reducing stigma and empowering patients to take control of their health.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease characterized by the rapid growth of skin cells, leading to red, scaly patches on the skin. These patches can appear anywhere on the body, including the scalp, elbows, knees and lower back. The exact cause of psoriasis remains unclear, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Triggers such as stress, infections, skin injuries and certain medications can exacerbate the condition.
An estimated 125 million worldwide and 8 million people in the US have psoriasis.
Living with psoriasis can be challenging, not only because of the physical discomfort but also due to the emotional toll. People with psoriasis may experience self-consciousness, anxiety and depression due to the visible nature of the condition.
The stigma associated with psoriasis can lead to social isolation and a decreased quality of life. Psoriasis Awareness Month aims to combat this stigma by educating the public about the realities of living with this condition and promoting acceptance.
The National Psoriasis Foundation is leading a Take ACTION for Psoriatic Disease movement to “motivate, inspire and connect with each other while raising critical funds for the mission to cure psoriatic disease.” The nationwide initiative includes the formation of local teams and fundraising events.
Related: New Sotyktu Commercial for Plaque Psoriasis: Living Life Without a “Filter”
Treatments for Psoriasis
Over the years, advancements in medical research have led to the development of more effective treatments for psoriasis. These treatments include topical therapies, phototherapy, systemic medications and biologics. Biologics, in particular, have revolutionized psoriasis treatment by targeting specific components of the immune system responsible for inflammation associated with the condition.
Notable biologics have been approved in recent years for the treatment of psoriasis. This includes Bristol Myers Squibb’s Sotyktu (deucravacitinib), which received US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval in 2022.
Up until this year, AbbVie’s anti-inflammatory monoclonal antibody Humira (adalimumab) reigned as the world’s best-selling drug for the past several years. As a replacement, AbbVie had Skyrizi (risankizumab) waiting in the wings, which first received FDA approval in 2019. In June, it received expanded approval for ulcerative colitis. In addition to ulcerative colitis, Skyrizi is approved for plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis and Crohn’s disease.
Psoriasis Awareness Month 2024: Empowering Patients
Empowerment is a key theme of Psoriasis Awareness Month 2024. Empowering patients means providing them with the knowledge and tools to manage their condition effectively. This includes understanding treatment options, recognizing triggers and adopting a healthy lifestyle. Support groups and online communities also play a crucial role in offering emotional support and sharing experiences. By connecting with others who understand their struggles, individuals with psoriasis can feel less alone and more confident in managing their condition.
Education is a powerful tool in reducing the stigma associated with psoriasis. Misconceptions and myths about the condition often lead to discrimination and misunderstanding. Psoriasis Awareness Month aims to dispel these myths and promote a more informed and compassionate society. The month-long campaign encourages individuals, organizations and healthcare providers to participate in events, share educational materials and use social media to spread awareness.
How You Can Get Involved
There are many ways to get involved in Psoriasis Awareness Month 2024:
- Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about psoriasis, its symptoms and treatment options. Share accurate information with friends and family.
- Support Fundraising Efforts: Many organizations host fundraising events to support research and patient support programs. Consider donating or participating in these events.
- Advocate for Change: Join advocacy efforts to promote better access to treatments and reduce discrimination against individuals with psoriasis.
- Share Your Story: If you have psoriasis, sharing your story can help others understand the condition’s impact and inspire those facing similar challenges.
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