Did you know that today is is World Psoriasis Day? Every October 29, this annual day is specially dedicated to people with psoriasis.
Created by patients for patients, World Psoriasis Day is a truly global event that sets out to give an international voice to the 125 million people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
Check out these facts on the skin condition to learn more:
- Psoriasis is the most common autoimmune disease in the U.S., affecting approximately 7.5 million adults in this country alone.
- Increased awareness is extremely important now since according to a recent survey of more than 3,000 psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (a related condition) patients, 85% of respondents stated there is a need for better therapies.
- Psoriasis can have a significant impact on the health care system and work productivity, racking up a whopping $11.25 billion in medical expenses and lost wages.
- 60% of the workforce have missed an average of 26 days of work due to the illness.
- 80% of those who develop psoriasis have what is called plaque psoriasis, with patches of raised, reddish skin covered by silvery-white scales that appear on these locations.
- Up to 3.6 million people live with undiagnosed psoriasis in the U.S.
- Psoriasis often appears between the ages of 15-30 and occurs nearly equally in males and females.
- Symptoms of psoriasis vary from person-to-person with 63% experiencing itching, 59% having irritation, and 46% combating burning or stinging.
- Psoriasis also increase the risk for other diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, depression, obesity, Crohn's disease, and psoriatic arthritis.
Suffering from psoriasis? Look out for our interview with Dr. J. Mark Jackson, a board certified dermatologist, to discuss the condition, latest treatments, and research soon.