Senate resolution calls for psoriasis awareness, research
PORTLAND, Ore. (April 19, 2006)—U.S. Sens. Frank Lautenberg, D-N.J., and Gordon Smith, R-Ore., have introduced a resolution recognizing the need for greater public awareness of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, more federal research to find a cure, as well as the need for improved access to safer, more effective treatments.
Senate Resolution 420 recognizes the adverse impact that psoriasis can have on people living with the disease, and the importance of early diagnosis and proper treatment. It also calls upon researchers to examine the negative psychological and physical effects of psoriasis to better understand its impact on those who have been diagnosed with the disease.
The resolution follows the third-annual National Psoriasis Foundation Capitol Hill Day in February. Nearly 100 volunteers visited 105 congressional offices, asking that members of Congress boost federal funding for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis research, improve access to treatments and increase awareness about the seriousness of the diseases.
"It is my hope that Congress will continue to aid efforts in the medical community to diagnose, treat and eventually cure this disease," Lautenberg said in a statement introducing the resolution. He noted that researchers have found that psoriasis can cause as much physical and mental disability as other major diseases.
A similar resolution (House Concurrent Resolution 340) was introduced by Rep. Jim Gerlach, R-Pa., in the U.S. House of Representatives in February.
"This is a critical call to action that we hope will help increase public awareness for the millions of Americans with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis," said Gail M. Zimmerman, president and CEO of the National Psoriasis Foundation. "We are extremely grateful to Senators Lautenberg and Smith for their support."
About Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a noncontagious, genetic skin disease that results when faulty signals in the immune system prompt skin cells to regenerate too quickly, causing red, scaly lesions that itch, crack and bleed. It often affects the elbows, knees, scalp and torso but can appear anywhere on the body. Ten percent to 30 percent of people with psoriasis also develop psoriatic arthritis, which causes pain, stiffness and swelling in and around the joints. There is no cure yet for these chronic diseases, which can disrupt daily life and are debilitating for some people.
About the National Psoriasis Foundation
The National Psoriasis Foundation is a patient-driven, nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of more than 5 million Americans diagnosed with psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis, and their families. The organization is headquartered in Portland, Ore. For more information, contact the Psoriasis Foundation, headquartered in Portland, Ore., at 800.723.9166, or visit www.psoriasis.org
For more information, contact:
National Psoriasis Foundation
503.744.7404
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