Not Just Skin Deep: Recognizing World Psoriasis Day 

Living with Psoriasis 

Psoriasis is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that causes discoloration, scaly patches and persistent itching. Many people experience periodic flare-ups, when symptoms worsen for a time. But psoriasis isn’t just skin deep – it’s linked to other serious health conditions, including diabetes, heart disease and mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression.  

One of the most common related conditions is psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Nearly 30% of people with psoriasis may develop psoriatic arthritis, which affects both the skin and joints. If left undiagnosed or untreated, it can lead to permanent joint damage or disability.  

Pursuing Remission 

While there is no cure for psoriatic diseases, remission – or minimal disease activity – is often achievable with early intervention and appropriate treatment. The journey toward remission begins by building a relationship with a healthcare provider and developing a care plan tailored to each patient’s unique experience. Because psoriasis and its comorbidities are deeply intertwined, achieving remission may require a holistic approach across multiple care teams – addressing everything from cardiovascular complications to mental health struggles.  

Psoriasis varies widely from person to person. Some live with mild symptoms for years, while others face painful, debilitating flare-ups that impact daily life. That’s why collaboration between patients and clinicians is essential to finding the most effective treatment strategy. Today’s treatment options are helping make remission a reality for many. They include topical creams, oral and injectable medications, light therapy and advanced biologic treatments.  

By seeking early diagnosis and intervention, individuals can help prevent psoriasis from progressing, thus improving their quality of life and reducing the risk of complications from related conditions. When receiving a diagnosis, patients should talk to their care team about remission goals and available treatment options.  

For more information on World Psoriasis Day, visit The National Psoriasis Foundation. To learn about the value of pursuing remission, explore the Global Remission Coalition’s resources.