The Psoriasis Association
The Association
Founded in 1968. It is an important self-help organisation providing support and information on all aspects of the condition to sufferers, carers, health professionals and others. More research projects are being supported every year, especially those investigating genetic aspects. There are strong national and international links and the Association strives constantly to improve patient care.
The membership of the Association is open to any with an interest in psoriasis. It publishes a journal Psoriasis in April, August and December each year. In some areas there are groups of sufferers who meet regularly for mutual support, talks, fundraising and special events.
The Association provides information packs to thousands of enquirers every year. A Psoriasis Awareness Week takes place in July each year.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a common skin condition which can occur on any part of the body at any age as raised red patches covered with silvery scales. It is very definitely neither infectious nor contagious. It is in simple terms only a vast acceleration of the usual replacement processes of the skin, but the basic causes remain unknown. Hereditary factors are thought to play an important part, with a genetic tendency being triggered by such things as injury, throat infections, certain drugs, and stress. There are many clinical forms, and considerable variations in intensity may occur. Widespread ignorance and the real or imagined reactions of non-sufferers may also lead to a withdrawal from society and feelings of isolation and depression. Permanent cures are not yet possible, although many people are helped by treatment, but cures will most certainly be found following increased and more intensive research.
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