This year, we celebrate World Psoriasis Day 2020 with the theme: “INFORMED”.  It first took place on October 29, 2004, and is now in its 16th year. Through reliable information, we can build data, toolkits, and other resources to improve the quality of life for people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. This year’s theme focuses on the relevance and power of information in making informed choices. In the Philippines, the estimated prevalence of psoriasis is 2.4% (Greb, et al, 2016).

According to the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations, being “INFORMED” has the following impact when we raise awareness about Psoriasis:

• Informed patients can better manage their condition.

Psoriasis is a long-term inflammatory disease that can involve nail and joints, in addition to the skin. It can develop in both males and females, regardless of age and race. For patients with moderate and severe psoriasis, there is an increased risk of developing psoriatic arthritis, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, anxiety, and depression. Psoriasis has inherited and environmental components as causes, and can be triggered by stress, infection, alcohol, and smoking.

• Informed patient associations and allied organizations are effective in better advocating and championing people with Psoriasis.

Psoriasis Philippines, or PsorPhil, is a duly SEC-registered and globally-recognized organization that represents the interests of the millions of Filipinos believed to be suffering in silence with psoriasis. It continues to campaign on increasing the awareness of the community on this highly unbearable condition, we continue to witness the many silent sufferings of our indigent patients across the country.

Through the years, the Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) highlighted the organization’s participation during World Psoriasis Day through the PsorWalk and the Hug Me campaign to prove that the disease is not contagious. The organization is also working on a bill, which they planned to submit it to Congress that will “put forth the benefits that are necessary for psoriasis patients.”

There are dermatology training programs by the PDS around the country where patients with skin diseases such as Psoriasis can undergo free evidence-based medical treatment. They also have psoriasis clubs as support groups. In cooperation with PsorPhil, PDS helps with community-based psoriasis clubs with PDS dermatologists as advisers.

• Informed healthcare professionals can deliver positive, solid information about Psoriasis.

To determine the disease, physicians diagnose it based on the appearance and distribution of the plaques. Psoriasis can be managed with proper care and treatment. With the help of holistic management being provided by healthcare professionals and institutions, people with Psoriasis can start living their lives to the fullest.

• Informed societies will know Psoriasis is not contagious.

Psoriasis is a lifelong disease that must keep the patient and others aware and well-informed. Remember that psoriasis is not fatal, nor is it contagious. More than the debilitating disease itself, the lack of information, awareness, and assistance about psoriasis affects patients the most. Often, patients feel isolated from other people who might discriminate against them. Some are also afraid to seek treatment. If you think you or your loved one has psoriasis, visit your dermatologist right away to test your skin.

• Informed decision-makers will be empowered to implement the WHO Resolution on Psoriasis.

In 2014, the World Health Organization (WHO) passed a Resolution on Psoriasis which recognizes Psoriasis as a chronic, painful, and non-communicable disease. It enjoins member states of the United Nations to implement a comprehensive and inclusive intervention on Psoriasis. The WHO Global Report on Psoriasis proposed key policy improvements for people living with Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis.

In the Philippines, national and local governments play an important role in addressing the needs of people living with Psoriasis. The Department of Health (DOH) must work continuously on seeking ways on how to include psoriasis into the national health policy and agenda of the government including the creation of a National Psoriasis Registry. Local government units (LGUs) and City Health Officers (CHO) should be creating projects that will look for people with psoriasis in the grassroots (barangay) levels.

Many autoimmune conditions such as Psoriasis can benefit from dietary changes. If you have Psoriasis, you may find it beneficial to include plenty of anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and healthy oils. You may also want to avoid pro-inflammatory foods, such as meat, dairy, and processed foods. These dietary changes may help to reduce the frequency and severity of your flare-ups. It’s always best to reach out to a physician or nutritionist for more information on how your diet can help control your condition. Psoriasis is not fatal. It is not contagious. It is when we are informed that we make informed decisions and when we are healthy by developing good nutrition that we can manage Psoriasis. #LeoChristianLauzon