Every year on October 29th, the global community comes together to observe World Psoriasis Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune condition that affects millions of people worldwide. This day serves as an opportunity to educate the public, support those living with the condition, and advocate for better treatment options and research.

Understanding Psoriasis

Psoriasis is characterized by the rapid growth of skin cells, leading to the formation of scales and red patches that can be itchy and sometimes painful. While the exact cause of psoriasis is not fully understood, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers, including stress, infections, and skin injuries. There are several types of psoriasis, with plaque psoriasis being the most common form. Other types include guttate, inverse, pustular, and erythrodermic psoriasis.

Impact on Lives

Psoriasis is more than just a skin condition; it can significantly affect a person's quality of life. Many individuals with psoriasis experience psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, and social stigma. The visibility of the condition can lead to feelings of self-consciousness and isolation. Furthermore, psoriasis is often associated with other health issues, such as psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome.

Goals and Activities

World Psoriasis Day aims to:

1.     Raise Awareness: By increasing public knowledge about psoriasis, the stigma surrounding the condition can be reduced. Educational campaigns often focus on the importance of understanding that psoriasis is not contagious and is a medical condition that requires appropriate care.

2.     Support Patients: Many organizations, such as the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA), use this day to provide resources, support networks, and information to those affected by psoriasis. Activities may include webinars, support group meetings, and informational booths at health fairs.

3.     Advocate for Research and Treatment: World Psoriasis Day also serves as a platform to call for increased funding for psoriasis research. It highlights the need for more effective treatments and the importance of access to care for all patients.

4.     Foster Community: Many local and global events are organized, allowing individuals with psoriasis to connect with one another. Sharing experiences and coping strategies can help foster a sense of community and support.

How to Get Involved

There are many ways to participate in World Psoriasis Day:

• Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about psoriasis and share your knowledge with friends, family, and colleagues. Social media can be a powerful tool for spreading awareness.
• Join Local Events: Participate in local awareness events, walks, or seminars that focus on psoriasis.
• Support Organizations: Consider donating to or volunteering with organizations dedicated to psoriasis research and support.
• Share Your Story: If you live with psoriasis, sharing your personal journey can help others understand the condition and reduce stigma.

Conclusion

World Psoriasis Day is a vital reminder of the challenges faced by those living with psoriasis and the importance of community, research, and advocacy. By coming together to raise awareness and support one another, we can work towards a future where people with psoriasis are understood, supported, and empowered to live their lives to the fullest.

   At the Department of Dermatovenereology, dissertations have been defended concerning the study of the role of morbidity in the structure of skin pathology, the rheological properties of blood, the characteristics of clinical presentations and metabolic disturbances in high-altitude patients, disturbances of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in children, the features of severe disease courses in the elderly, and treatment and prevention in the resort conditions of the Republic of Tajikistan.

   Since 2004, October 29th has been observed as World Psoriasis Day. Tajik dermatologists, along with other scientists worldwide, contribute to improving the quality of life for patients with psoriasis. The doctors' goals are to extend the remission period of the disease, enhance the quality of life, and reduce the frequency of hereditary psoriasis, as well as to prepare young specialists in the provision of dermatological services.

Ismatulloeva S.S.-Senior lectures of the Department of Dermatovenereology