National Psoriasis Awareness Month
August Is National Psoriasis Awareness Month
National Psoriasis Awareness Month is observed every August. It shines a light on psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis while supporting the millions of people living with these chronic conditions.
Why Psoriasis Awareness Matters
Psoriasis affects about 7.5 million U.S. adults—roughly 3% of the adult population, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation. Psoriatic arthritis, an inflammatory disease linked to psoriasis, also impacts quality of life for many. Raising psoriasis awareness helps reduce stigma, encourages early diagnosis, and connects patients with life-changing resources.
The Role of Media and Advertising
The surge in commercials for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis medications reflects two key trends:
Advancements in treatment – Biologics and immune-modulating drugs have transformed care, offering relief for patients with moderate to severe symptoms.
Increased diagnosis and advocacy – As awareness grows, more people recognize their symptoms and seek medical help, driving demand for effective treatments.
Pharmaceutical marketing – With multiple competing drugs on the market, companies are investing heavily in advertising to reach both patients and healthcare providers.
A Movement for Change
National Psoriasis Awareness Month is more than education. It’s a movement that empowers patients, encourages advocacy, and pushes for better treatments. By spreading psoriasis awareness, we build understanding, reduce stigma, and give a voice to those living with these autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.
What Exactly Is Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation throughout the body, most visibly on the skin. The condition develops when an overactive immune system speeds up the skin cell cycle. In healthy skin, cells regenerate and shed in about a month. With psoriasis, this process takes just 3–4 days, leading to a buildup of cells that form thick, scaly plaques.
These plaques can itch, burn, or sting. They often appear on the elbows, knees, and scalp, but they may develop anywhere. Symptoms can look different depending on skin tone, which sometimes leads to delayed diagnosis in people of color.
Psoriasis isn’t just a skin condition. Up to 30% of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis, a painful inflammatory joint disease. Psoriatic disease can also affect internal organs and systems, proving that it’s a systemic condition, not a cosmetic issue.
Psoriasis can develop at any age, though it often begins between 15 and 25. Triggers include stress, illness, injury, and certain medications.
Why Psoriasis Awareness Matters
Despite being common, psoriasis is surrounded by stigma and misinformation. Many people wrongly believe it’s contagious. This false belief leads to shame, isolation, and discrimination for those affected. Psoriasis awareness combats these myths, encourages understanding, and supports those living with psoriatic disease.
That’s why National Psoriasis Awareness Month each August is so important. It gives patients a voice and educates the public about the realities of life with psoriasis.
How to Raise Psoriasis Awareness in August During Psoriasis Awareness Month
You can make a difference this month with simple but powerful actions:
Share your story on social media to normalize the condition.
Post facts and resources to challenge myths.
Donate to organizations like the National Psoriasis Foundation.
Wear orange and lavender awareness ribbons to spark conversations.
Support with products like personalized ribbon pins from Personalized Cause®, engraved with names, dates, or messages such as “Know About Psoriasis.”
Even small gestures help spread psoriasis awareness and show solidarity.
Celebrity Advocacy and Progress
Public figures have helped bring psoriasis into the spotlight. Celebrities like Cyndi Lauper, Kim Kardashian, and Phil Mickelson have spoken openly about their experiences. Their honesty reduces stigma and encourages others to seek treatment.
Meanwhile, advances in research have led to breakthrough biologic therapies. These treatments are transforming lives, offering relief once thought impossible.
Support, Don’t Stare
Psoriasis is not “just a rash.” It’s a lifelong autoimmune disease that impacts both physical and mental health. If you know someone living with it, show empathy instead of judgment. Listen. Learn. Advocate.
And when you see an awareness pin this August, remember: it’s more than an accessory. It’s a powerful symbol of courage, advocacy, and psoriasis awareness.
Resources:
For more information about psoriasis, contact the National Psoriasis Foundation.
Recommended Articles:
You can view recommended articles for more information.
1_National Cancer Survivor’s Day