World Psoriasis Day 2020: Theme, Facts About The Autoimmune Disease

Thursday marks World Psoriasis Day. It is observed on Oct. 29 every year to create awareness about the disease and the millions of people who combat this illness.

This year's theme is "informed," the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) said.

"Information is a key ingredient in the recipe for empowerment. We knew this in 2019 when we launched our three-year campaign: Connected, Informed, United. Still, the events of 2020 have reinforced our commitment to the theme," the IFPA said. "There has never been a more important time to be informed."

Due to the physical limitations caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the day will be observed virtually this year.

The National Psoriasis Foundation (NSF) has prepared several virtual events, which can be attended by anyone from any part of the world. This includes an official online community session, a coloring activity and several events on Instagram.

"This global community is always looking out for each other. In this particularly challenging year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we will all take a little extra sense of camaraderie and togetherness from this year's event," the NPF said. "If something positive comes out of the global pandemic, perhaps it's the proliferation of ways in which we can connect virtually, no matter our location on the planet."

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that expedites the growth cycle of skin cells, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). It causes patches of thick red skin or silvery scales in certain parts of the body, particularly the knees, elbows, face, back, scalp, lower back, soles of the feet and palms.

Among people with psoriasis, 10% to 20% will eventually develop psoriatic arthritis, which is an inflammatory type of arthritis, the CDC said.

Psoriasis is not a contagious disease. As an autoimmune disease, it happens when a person's immune system becomes overactive and attacks normal tissues in the body.

The history of psoriasis goes back to ancient Egypt. Through the years, people with psoriasis faced stigma and isolation. Today there are several advanced treatment options that help patients keep the condition under control, such as biologic medications that help manage the condition with fewer side effects.

Taking dietary supplements, keeping a healthy diet, reducing stress and avoiding alcohol are some of the simpler ways to ease psoriasis symptoms, a Healthline report says.

According to the NPF, over 125 million people from all over the world are impacted by this disease. Some well-known people such as Kim Kardashian-West, her mother Kris Jenner, singer Cyndi Lauper and model Cara Delevingne were diagnosed with psoriasis.

World Psoriasis Day provides an opportunity for people with the condition to come together and share their experiences with each other and the rest of the world. It not only promotes camaraderie and connection but also broadens the global community's understanding of the disease.

"If one message ends up resonating with you during World Psoriasis Day, we hope that it's the realization that a high quality of life is possible when you know your psoriatic disease and treatment options," the NPF said.