When you have a chronic condition it can take a lot out of you. You are faced with the constant battle of keeping the condition under control. It can wear you down and you often feel that you are all alone in a world of healthy people who do not know how you feel.
Psoriasis is one such condition.
A chronic, genetic, inflammatory skin condition characterised by patches of thick, silvery scales that flake off, psoriasis is uncomfortable, itchy and often unsightly . . . and you often feel all alone.
You are not alone
This week in Stockholm the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) is holding the second World Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Conference. The IFPA is a non-profit organisation comprised of psoriasis associations from around the world.
The organizations are devoted to improving the quality of life of people who have psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis and the purpose of the conference is to provide intense medical education, promote interaction between physicians and scientists, and facilitate communication with patients and health professionals from all over the world.
Psoriasis – Skin and Beyond
The theme for the conference is “Psoriasis – Skin and Beyond” which recognizes the many diverse and emerging issues involved with psoriasis and associated conditions and will be attended by physicians (both dermatologists and rheumatologists) and researchers alike.
Hopefully in the not too distant future I will be able to report to you some of the outcomes of this conference along with some positive steps forward in the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
You are not alone – efforts are being made to improve your condition.