|
The latest news releases from the National Psoriasis Foundation on research developments into psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, National Psoriasis Foundation events for its members and the public and other relevant happenings.
Media Inquiries
Marketing and Communications Department
National Psoriasis Foundation
503.244.7404, ext. 413
pfasano@psoriasis.org |
Summertime Can Be Tough for People With Psoriasis
Patients to gather in Chicago for August's Psoriasis Awareness Month
Portland, Ore., July 21, 2003 -- Many of the 4.5 million U.S. adults with psoriasis dread summertime and the fashions that come with it. The stigma associated with this serious and debilitating disease often makes people with psoriasis reluctant to wear short sleeve t-shirts, shorts and bathing suits that will expose their skin. In fact, a survey showed 40 percent of people with moderate to severe psoriasis said their disease affects their clothing choices, forcing them to cover up to hide their condition.
"I used to dread summertime," says Bill Bright of Chicago, who has had psoriasis for more than 20 years. "It was mortifying for me to think of having people see my skin, when I had gotten used to covering it up and hiding it -- even though I knew the sun might actually help heal my psoriasis."
Bright is one of hundreds who will be gathering in Chicago from Aug. 8-10 for the "New Hope, New Connections" conference hosted by the National Psoriasis Foundation in recognition of Psoriasis Awareness Month.
"This conference is a great opportunity for all psoriasis patients and their family members to learn more about the latest treatments for psoriasis, to be updated on the latest research to find a cure for the disease and to meet other people who are going through the same physical and emotional challenges," said Gail Zimmerman, president and CEO of the National Psoriasis Foundation.For those who cannot attend the conference, the Psoriasis Foundation offers people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis several sources of information to help them cope, including the following:
- A revamped, interactive Web site that has the latest news and information, plus live chats with specialists in the field. Currently, the Web site receives more than 87,000 hits each month.
- A new member support kit that includes the bimonthly Psoriasis Advance magazine, the Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment Guide, the Guide to Living with Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis, and a Guide to National Psoriasis Foundation Programs and Services. Patients interested in receiving this kit should contact the Psoriasis Foundation at 800.723.9166 or visit www.psoriasis.org.
With the help of his dermatologist, today Bright has found a new biologic treatment that works for him, and his psoriasis is healing. He has lost 30 pounds. He has not only put on a swimsuit, but has also taken up swimming on a regular basis.
"Living with psoriasis has been a serious challenge for me," adds Bright. "Many people think it's just a trivial skin rash, when in reality it's an immune disease that affects everything from my skin, to my joints, to my sleeping. I'm relieved to have finally found something that works for me so I can get on with living my life. I'm looking forward to sharing my good news with others at the conference this month."
About Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an immune disease that typically first strikes people between the ages of 15 and 35. Psoriasis occurs when faulty signals in the immune system cause skin cells to regenerate too quickly�every three to four days instead of the usual 30-day cycle. Extra skin cells build up on the skin's surface forming red, flaky, scaly patches called plaques that can itch, crack, and bleed and be extremely painful. Psoriasis generally appears on the joints, limbs and scalp but it can appear anywhere on the body, covering some people from head to toe. More than 4.5 million U.S. adults have psoriasis.
About the National Psoriasis Foundation
The National Psoriasis Foundation is the leading nonprofit organization fighting to improve the quality of life of people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis and their families. It receives its support from public donations and companies interested in supporting the psoriasis community. Its mission is to educate people about these diseases and their treatments, raise public awareness, and support ongoing research. The organization is headquartered in Portland, Ore., and serves the millions of men, women and children diagnosed with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. For more information, please call the Psoriasis Foundation at 800.723.9166 or www.psoriasis.org.
|
