World Psoriasis Day [29th October]

The International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) observes World Psoriasis Day on the 29th of October every year. The event is primarily observed to inform people of the ill effects of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The event empowers people with adequate knowledge of these diseases to improve their quality of life. The IFPA decides the theme of World Psoriasis Day, and 2021's theme was 'Uniting for Action.' Presently, over 50 countries worldwide mark this event with seminars, conferences, public speeches, etc.

What is Psoriasis?

Psoriasis is a type of skin disorder that prompts the skin cells in the human body to grow almost ten times faster. Psoriasis is responsible for bumpy red, itchy patches on the skin. The patches are mostly seen on the elbows, knees, scalp, and trunk. The primary purpose of World Psoriasis Day is to make people acquainted with the causes, symptoms, and treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. 

Psoriasis is usually a chronic disease that cannot be cured. The disease disappears and reappears in cycles. While treatments exist to control psoriasis, the severity is generally reduced by changing lifestyle habits and coping strategies.

The primary trigger of the disease is inflammation and low levels of Vitamin D. Presently, more than 125 million people have psoriasis.

History & Significance of World Psoriasis Day

The International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) marks world psoriasis day to remember and recognise the people affected by the disease. It has been observed by almost fifty (50) countries worldwide for about a decade now. To mark this day, academic, medical, research institutions and individuals organise activities to let people know the causes, symptoms, and treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Psoriasis has been one of the most misunderstood diseases in the world. The symptoms and the treatment have forever been subject to intense debates. From doctors to patients, everyone got confused. Incidentally, Hippocrates was the first person to treat this skin ailment with tar and other ingredients. However, his prescription also included topical arsenic.  

The Greek Physician Galen was the first to identify psoriasis as skin disease and attribute this name to the disease. The cure suggested by him was a little unconventional as per today's standards, though. He suggested applying viper-boiled broth on the spot affected by psoriasis.

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According to the Old Testament, psoriasis or conditions that mark the disease were often considered leprosy. People suffering from it were often kept in isolation and had to bear the social stigma. In medieval Europe, officials alerted people by ringing a clapper when a person affected by psoriasis arrived in the locality. 

In yesteryear, the treatment of psoriasis often began with skin lubrication and body wrapping—a person suffering from the disease was wrapped in a plastic sheet for days. The plastic sheet was believed to loosen the scales. The treatment often saw the use of harmful chemicals like mercury, sulphur, and nitrate.  

World Psoriasis Day is observed to make people aware of the symptoms, causes, and treatment of psoriasis, a skin disease marked by red, itchy skin patches. The theme of 2021 world psoriasis day is 'Uniting for Action.

FAQs about World Psoriasis Day

Q.1 What is World Psoriasis Day?

World Psoriasis Day is observed by the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) to inform people of the ill effects of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Q.2 Who is the President of the International Federation of Psoriasis Association?

Hoseah Waweru is the President of the International Federation of Psoriasis Association.

Q.3 When was the International Federation of Psoriasis Association founded?

The International Federation of Psoriasis Associations was founded in 1971.

Q.4 Where is the International Federation of Psoriasis Association Headquarters located?

The International Federation of Psoriasis Association Headquarters is located in Sweden.

Q.5 Who decides the World Psoriasis Day logo?

The International Federation of Psoriasis Association decides the World Psoriasis Day logo. 

Q.6 What is World Psoriasis Day Consortium?

The International Federation of Psoriasis Association is known as World Psoriasis Day Consortium.