World Psoriasis Day

World Psoriasis Day, observed annually on 29 October, is a global health initiative dedicated to increasing understanding of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The day highlights the challenges faced by those living with these chronic conditions and promotes greater access to treatment, education, and social acceptance. Coordinated by the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA), this observance unites patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers to improve quality of life and advocate for early diagnosis and effective management.

Understanding Psoriasis: A Chronic Immune-Mediated Condition

Psoriasis is a long-term, non-contagious autoimmune skin disorder that accelerates the skin cell life cycle, leading to rapid buildup of cells on the surface. This causes thick, scaly, inflamed patches, often accompanied by itching, pain, and discomfort. It can affect any part of the body, commonly appearing on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back.
The disease occurs when the immune system becomes overactive, mistakenly attacking healthy skin cells. Instead of shedding every 28 days, skin cells regenerate within 3–7 days, resulting in characteristic plaques. Though it primarily affects the skin, psoriasis is now understood as a systemic inflammatory disorder linked to multiple comorbidities such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and depression.

Global Burden and Prevalence

Psoriasis affects approximately 125 million people worldwide, according to the World Health Organization. Its prevalence varies geographically, affecting between 0.1% and 11% of populations, depending on region and genetics. In India, it is estimated to affect 1–2% of the population, with increasing urban incidence attributed to changing lifestyles, pollution, and stress.
While psoriasis can occur at any age, two main peaks of onset are observed — one between 15 and 35 years and another after 50 years. Men and women are affected equally, though disease severity and psychological impact often differ individually.

Types and Symptoms of Psoriasis

Psoriasis manifests in several forms, each with distinct clinical features:

• Plaque Psoriasis (Psoriasis Vulgaris): The most common type, characterised by raised, red patches covered with silvery-white scales.
• Guttate Psoriasis: Small, drop-shaped sores often triggered by infections such as streptococcal throat infection.
• Inverse Psoriasis: Smooth, shiny lesions appearing in skin folds like armpits, groin, or under the breasts.
• Pustular Psoriasis: White pustules surrounded by inflamed skin, which can appear on hands, feet, or body-wide in severe cases.
• Erythrodermic Psoriasis: A rare but life-threatening form causing widespread redness, itching, and pain, requiring urgent medical care.

The disease is chronic and cyclical, marked by flare-ups and periods of remission. Common triggers include infections, cold weather, emotional stress, skin injuries, smoking, alcohol consumption, and certain medications such as beta-blockers or lithium.

Psoriatic Arthritis: Beyond the Skin

Up to 30% of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis (PsA), a painful inflammatory joint condition. PsA can lead to joint stiffness, swelling, and deformity if untreated. The disease shares features with rheumatoid arthritis but is distinct in its link to psoriasis. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent irreversible joint damage and maintain mobility.

The Theme and Significance of World Psoriasis Day 2025

Each year, World Psoriasis Day adopts a global theme to guide awareness efforts. The 2025 campaign focuses on the message “Equal Access for All”, stressing the need for affordable healthcare, inclusive policies, and psychological support for people living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The campaign aims to dispel misconceptions that psoriasis is contagious or purely cosmetic and instead recognise it as a serious, lifelong medical condition requiring multidisciplinary care.
Events on this day include public health talks, screening camps, awareness marches, social media campaigns, and educational webinars led by dermatological societies, hospitals, and patient advocacy groups.

Treatment and Management Strategies

While psoriasis has no permanent cure, it can be effectively managed with medical treatment, lifestyle modification, and stress management. The goal of therapy is to control inflammation, reduce symptoms, and prevent flare-ups.
Common treatment options include:

• Topical Therapies: Corticosteroids, vitamin D analogues, and retinoids used for mild cases.
• Phototherapy: Controlled exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light to slow skin cell turnover.
• Systemic Medications: Methotrexate, cyclosporine, and acitretin for moderate to severe cases.
• Biologic Therapies: Modern targeted drugs that suppress specific immune pathways, significantly improving outcomes in resistant cases.

Alongside medication, maintaining healthy habits can greatly reduce disease burden:

• Regular moisturising to prevent dryness and scaling.
• Balanced diet rich in antioxidants, fruits, and vegetables.
• Avoidance of smoking, alcohol, and triggers such as harsh weather or stress.
• Regular exercise and adequate sleep to support immune regulation.

Psychological and Social Impact

Psoriasis has profound psychological and emotional implications. Visible skin lesions often lead to stigma, embarrassment, and social isolation, contributing to anxiety and depression. Studies reveal that up to 60% of patients experience emotional distress or reduced self-esteem. Awareness campaigns play a crucial role in combating prejudice and promoting empathy.
Healthcare professionals encourage psychological counselling and support groups as part of comprehensive psoriasis care. Acknowledging the mental health dimension is essential to ensure holistic wellbeing.

The Need for Awareness and Policy Action

Despite its high prevalence, psoriasis remains under-recognised and under-treated in many regions. Access to dermatological care and biologic therapies is limited, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Public health systems must strengthen early diagnosis, affordable medication, and patient education programmes.
World Psoriasis Day urges governments and health organisations to integrate psoriasis into national non-communicable disease (NCD) frameworks, ensuring equitable healthcare access. Awareness initiatives also seek to educate workplaces and schools, fostering inclusivity and reducing discrimination against individuals with visible skin conditions.

Living Positively with Psoriasis

While psoriasis is a lifelong condition, modern medicine and informed self-care allow individuals to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Adopting a proactive approach through regular dermatological consultation, adherence to treatment, stress control, and community engagement helps maintain long-term remission and emotional balance.