The month of August is recognized as Psoriasis Awareness Month, a time of year set aside to help spread awareness about the disease among the general public and in the medical field. It can be challenging and isolating to live with a chronic condition, and this year, activities planned around the event will not only help spread awareness, but also connect members of the community.

About Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a relatively common autoimmune disease which is most characterized by unusual, raised patches of skin. However, certain forms of the condition, such as guttate psoriasis, are much rarer than the most common form, called plaque psoriasis. In addition to the skin, the finger and toenails are also affected by the disease in most patients. Risk factors include genetics, family history, HIV, microbial infections, certain medications, changes in climate or seasonal conditions, stress, binge drinking, and smoking cigarettes. Treatments include topical agents like steroid cream, moisturizers, or emollients; UV phototherapy, diet changes, tonsillectomy, and systemic therapies in severe cases. There is no known cure. To learn more about psoriasis, click here.

There are a multitude of ways that you can get involved if you want to play your part in Psoriasis Awareness Month, such as:

1. Posting on social media. Are you a member of this patient community? Talking about your experience is a great way to spread awareness on your preferred social media platforms. Don’t forget to use the hashtags #PsoriasisCommunity, #PsoriasisWarrior, and #PsoriasisAwareness.
2. Share education resources. Awareness is all about educating and informing, and this is another way to step up your social media game. Try these resources listed below:
   • National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF)
   • American Academy of Dermatology Association
   • American Academy of Family Physicians
   • National Institutes of Health
3. Participate in disease research. As your doctor about signing up for a clinical trial or a patient registry. Click here to search for studies that are recruiting. Sign up for notifications about upcoming studies here.
4. Donate to a patient organization. There are many support groups that could use your help. Here are some groups to consider:
   • NPF
   • Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis
   • International Dermatology Outcomes Measures Initiative
   • Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Clinics Multicenter Advancement Network
5. Get involved in awareness events. Click here to learn more.