World Psoriasis Day (October 29th)

People who live with psoriasis often have itchy, splotchy, flaky patches of skin that can be very itchy, uncomfortable and sometimes painful. Not only do these skin lesions cause pain and discomfort physically, but they can also cause a number of issues such as emotional and psychological problems. People who have psoriasis may experience embarrassment, anxiety, social withdrawal, difficulty sleeping, depression and other issues. 

World Psoriasis Day is here to increase public awareness and reduce the stigma so that people who have psoriasis can feel more comfortable and accepted in their communities. In addition, the day also acts as a call to action for medical professionals and communities to show support for individuals who live with psoriasis.

Each year, the organizers of World Psoriasis Day choose a theme that helps to bring focus to the different activities surrounding the event. Past themes for this day have included:

• Access for All (2023)
• Psoriatic Disease and Mental Health (2022)
• United Now Act (2021)
• Let’s Get Connected (2019)

History of World Psoriasis Day

The original observance of World Psoriasis Day started around 2010 when it was established through the efforts of the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA). Sometimes called Psoriasis Awareness Day, this event has grown significantly over the years and is now observed in more than 70 countries located all over the globe.

World Psoriasis Day stands as a reminder that people and communities all over the world need to be better educated and more aware about psoriasis and its impact

Another similar event takes place throughout the entire month of October. National Psoriasis Awareness Month was launched in 1997 by the National Psoriasis Foundation as its first full-blown public awareness campaign. This event eventually turned into Psoriasis Action Month which is still celebrated today.

How to Celebrate World Psoriasis Day

Check out some of these ideas to get started with observing World Psoriasis Day:

Attend World Psoriasis Day Events

One way that this event can be observed is that medical professionals, those who have psoriasis, and those who support them can choose to attend different public events such as seminars, Educational activities and more. In addition, these types of events often need volunteers to help support and run them, so World Psoriasis Day would be a great time to choose to volunteer!