August is Psoriasis AwarenessMonth
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By Allie Vossoughi
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Many of us have heard of Psoriasis, but most are unsure of what exactly this disease entails. Psoriasis is the most common type of autoimmune disease, effecting an estimated 7.5 million Americans. It is important to know the facts about a disease that is so prevalent in our society. Due to common misconceptions about symptoms and misunderstood causes of Psoriasis, it is important to raise awareness and spread knowledge about the disease.
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Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that occurs when a person’s body tries to fight off infection, however, the antibodies also attack normal cells. This failed immune response causes abnormal skin growths and skin inflammation. Although the disease is an autoimmune disorder, it can be triggered by specific events, such as skin injuries, sun damage, reactions to medications, and stress. Genes can also make a person more susceptible to psoriasis. A person with a parent who has psoriasis is 50% more likely to develop the disease.
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Psoriasis is a disease which symptoms mainly affect the skin, appearing as red, scaly patches of skin that crack, bleed, and cause itchiness. The skin may appear in sliver scales as well as inflamed skin. Common areas for this to occur in a person with Psoriasis is the scalp as well as hands and feet. In addition, 30% of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis, causing pain and swelling of the joints.
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The most concerning side effect of Psoriasis may actually be psychological and social. Due common assumptions combined with the visual presence of the disease, people with Psoriasis are more susceptible to developing depression as well as anxiety disorders. People who are not familiar with the disease believe that it is contagious, and tend to discriminate against people with Psoriasis.
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Although there is no prevention or cure for Psoriasis, I think it is most important that society become informed about this common autoimmune disorder. It would be most unfortunate for the worst symptom for someone with Psoriasis to be caused purely by our society’s false beliefs! If you or someone you love has Psoriasis, you can participate in Psoriasis awareness month by submitting pictures and sharing stories about your journey at www.psoriasisawarenessmonth.org/. Additionally, National Psoriasis Foundation is the world’s largest non-profit patient advocacy organization and constantly strives for a treatment and a cure for the disease.
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Click here to read the full version of the American Retirement Advisors August newsletter.
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