World Psoriasis Day

World Psoriasis Day, observed annually on October 29, is a day when the global community comes together to highlight the challenges faced by people living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. It offers an opportunity to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and support those whose lives are touched by these conditions. ¹

History of World Psoriasis Day

The observance of World Psoriasis Day originated with the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA). The first global observance took place in 2004, and since then the event has been held annually on October 29. Over the years the day has grown in reach: today it is observed in over 70 countries worldwide, with patient organizations, healthcare providers, and advocates working together to spotlight psoriatic disease as more than “just a skin issue.” ²

Why is World Psoriasis Day important?

World Psoriasis Day reminds us that psoriatic disease goes beyond visible skin plaques or joint pain — it touches identity, confidence, social life, work, and mental health. Many people living with psoriasis face hidden burdens: flare‑ups at inopportune times, feeling “othered” because their skin looks different, or managing daily treatments and side effects. The day invites us to pause and recognize the human side of a medical condition — not just statistics but stories, hopes, and frustrations.
And then there’s the deeper layer: the connection between psoriasis and other health‑risks such as heart disease, diabetes, or depression. By acknowledging those links, we move from treating symptoms to understanding the whole person — body, mind, and lifestyle. In this sense, World Psoriasis Day is important because it calls both for compassion and for action: better care, earlier diagnosis, reduced stigma, and more research.
Here are some reflections on why this day truly matters:

• Many people don’t realize psoriasis is a systemic disease, not merely a cosmetic skin problem.
• Recognizing and treating the condition early can reduce the risk of related health issues beyond the skin.
• The day gives a voice to individuals and families affected, helping break the isolation and stigma that often accompany the condition.
• It encourages healthcare systems and policy makers to improve access to effective treatments and support services.
• It invites everyone—family, friends, and employers—to support someone living with psoriatic disease, showing kindness and understanding.

How to Celebrate World Psoriasis Day

Celebrating World Psoriasis Day doesn’t require a big event: it can be as simple as reaching out, learning something new, or sharing a message of support. You might spend a few minutes reading about the condition, following someone’s story, or posting on social media with a hashtag to raise awareness. It could also mean checking in with a friend who lives with psoriasis: asking how they’re doing, offering help with something, or just saying, “I see you”.
Another practical way is to commit to a small change—perhaps you’ll learn the signs of a flare‑up, explore ways to support skin‑and‑joint health (with your healthcare provider), or advocate for more understanding and access in your community. These small steps add up when many people participate.
Here are some doable ideas:

• Read and share a credible article about psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis so you can better understand what someone may be going through.
• Wear something that supports the cause (for example, an orange ribbon, which is used in some awareness campaigns) and tell someone why.
• Post a personal message or story (your own or someone else’s with permission) using a supported hashtag like #WorldPsoriasisDay.
• If you know someone affected, offer to accompany them to a doctor or support group, or simply ask how they’re really doing.
• Encourage your workplace or community group to display information or hold a short lunch‑and‑learn about living with chronic skin conditions.

World Psoriasis Day Dates Table

1. https://www.psoriasis.org/world-psoriasis-day/[↩]
2. https://www.ifpa-pso.com/global-actions-overview/world-psoriasis-day[↩]