The Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has launched a campaign as part of Psoriasis Awareness Month this month. It is estimated that 3% of Qatar’s population is affected by the disease.
Men and women develop psoriasis at equal rates. The condition is often diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 35, but it can develop at any age.
The main goal of Psoriasis Awareness Month is to raise awareness, encourage research and advocate for better care for individuals who have the disease. The month is also an opportunity to educate the public about the disease and to dispel common myths.
Psoriasis is a chronic, genetic autoimmune disease that causes red, scaly patches on the skin. It causes cells to rapidly build up on the surface of the skin. It typically occurs on the knees, elbows, and scalp but can affect the torso, palms and soles of the feet or any other part of the skin.
According to Dr Ahmad Hazem Takiddin, dermatology and venereology consultant at HMC, there are a number of common misconceptions about psoriasis, ranging from the condition being contagious to occurring due to poor hygiene.
“Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease which affects the skin. The patches can crack and bleed and this causes some people to think the condition is contagious. This is not true. Genetics and the immune system of a person play a vital role in the development of the disease. In those with psoriasis, the immune system sends abnormal signals that significantly accelerate the growth process of skin cells,” Takiddin said.
He emphasised that psoriasis is not caused or worsened by poor personal hygiene.
“People with the disease have a genetic tendency to develop it. There are certain things that can trigger flare-ups, including skin injury, stress, hormonal changes, infections and some medications. Most people with the disease experience cycles of clear skin and outbreaks,” he said.
HMC
