What is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin. It is not contagious and can affect anyone, regardless of family history. Some people experience mild symptoms, while others face severe flare-ups that impact daily life. Living with psoriasis often involves medical treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and emotional support.
My Early Struggles with Psoriasis
I was diagnosed with psoriasis during my fourth year of college. At first, it was mild, and I could live normally—wearing what I wanted and going about my daily life. But after giving birth to my son, the condition became severe, spreading all over my body.
Before joining any support groups, I felt alone and frustrated. I tried topical medications, phototherapy, and other treatments, but progress was slow and expensive. There were times I felt depressed, wishing I could have normal skin again.
Joining the Asian Psoriasis Club and the local PsorPhil group gave me hope. I realized I wasn’t alone—there were others who truly understood what I was going through.
Celebrating World Psoriasis Day
World Psoriasis Day, observed globally every year, is dedicated to raising awareness about psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. The event aims to educate people, improve access to treatments, and reduce discrimination against those living with the condition.
My First Fun Walk (2010)
In 2010, I joined the Fun Walk in Manila organized by PsorPhil. I wanted to show the world that psoriasis is not contagious and connect with others battling the same condition. It was my first step toward advocacy, and I left feeling empowered and supported.
Joining the Cause Again (2012)
Two years later, I joined the World Psoriasis Day Fun Walk at Maysilo Circle, Mandaluyong City. This time, my husband and son accompanied me. We participated alongside doctors, sponsors, volunteers, and other supporters, all under the global theme “Put Psoriasis on the Agenda Now.”
After the walk, we enjoyed games, activities, and even won the sack race with Asian PsorClub! These events are not just fun—they help build community and amplify awareness.
World Psoriasis Day 2014
In 2014, I attended another World Psoriasis Day event at San Andres Complex. The celebration included:
Free medical consultations with dermatologists and rheumatologists
Health checks like blood pressure, sugar, cholesterol, BMI, and urinalysis
Free medications (while supplies lasted)
Fun activities, including cheering competitions, raffles, and a Zumba party
Each year, these events reinforce the importance of advocacy, support, and education for people living with psoriasis.
National Psoriasis Awareness in the Philippines
Since 2011, the Philippines has observed National Psoriasis Awareness Week from October 23–29 via Presidential Proclamation. This initiative complements World Psoriasis Day by promoting education, reducing stigma, and increasing support for individuals with psoriasis.
The International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) also advocates worldwide for the 125 million people affected by psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Together, these efforts give patients a voice and encourage global awareness.
Living with Psoriasis: My Message
Psoriasis is more than just a skin condition—it affects confidence, mental health, and daily life. Yet, with family support, medical care, and strong advocacy communities like Asian PsorClub and PsorPhil, living with psoriasis becomes manageable.
I hope my story inspires others to:
Seek support and join psoriasis communities
Participate in awareness events like World Psoriasis Day
Remember that psoriasis is not contagious
Through continued education and advocacy, we can build a more understanding world for people living with psoriasis.
12 comments:
Skin problems shouldn't be taken lightly...and yeah some people can be so judgmental. I think I was in high school that I had skin problems, and the doc said I had psoriasis. My parents took a second opinion and it turned out that it was just a simple allergy.
Second opinion is really a must. :)
My mom suffers from psoriasis too. It flares up when she's super stressed. I remember one time that she stopped working because her psoriasis got really bad.
I feel her. Some psor patients are unemployed because of the skin condition and some naman even stopped studying. :( I hope your mom can join the PsorPhil group. :)
Wow this is good that there's a support group for individuals with psoriasis. It could be really hard for them.
Oh I didn't know that Psoriasis patients need to be careful with what they do, eat or wear. I thought it was just skin asthma triggered by dust. Thanks for the info.
Actually, we can wear anything but because of the skin condition, we tend to wear clothes that will hide it to avoid discrimination.
went through an experience wherein i had wounds all over my arms and legs, people called it psoriasis, my classmates made fun of me, went for a second opinion and it turned out it was just allergy. im proud of you for being open about this...and to all those judgmental people out there??? up yours!! lol!
It's nice to know that there's a support group for psoriasis. Surrounded by people who understand you and going through the same thing is surely a great help.
Great that there's a group that support our kababayans with psoriasis.
Skin problems should be taken seriously. For an organization to offer free consultation is definitely a good improvement.
Thanks! :)
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