Psoriasis is a life-long skin condition, for which there is no cure.
It occurs when skin cells reproduce at a faster rate than normal. The skin cells build up and cause raised patches to form. These patches can be red (on Caucasian skin) or appear more as purple patches with grey scales (on darker skin tones). They can also be flaky, itchy and scaly.
Psoriasis can flare up anywhere on the body and can be severe or mild. Some people can go for long periods without their psoriasis flaring up, but other people may experience regular flare-ups. Its visibility and the misconception that it is contagious, means it is often stigmatising. This is an additional burden to the physical discomfort it may cause. Psoriasis affects people physically and psychologically, and has also been associated with other conditions.
One of the aims of the GPA is to understand the number of people around the world who are affected by psoriasis, and what care and treatment is available to them wherever they may live. We know that psoriasis can be managed well if people receive appropriate and timely advice and treatment.
