13 Aug 10 Truths about Psoriasis

Many myths have been told about Psoriasis. Here are some interesting facts that will dispel some of these…

• Affects around 2% of people in the UK…approximately 30-50% of adults with psoriasis develop it before they are 20 years
• Psoriasis can develop in men and women at any age, but it most commonly develops in adults under 35 years
• Exact cause unknown, but it involves genetics, the immune system and environmental factors…about 30% of sufferers have an affected first-degree family member. Although psoriasis can be hereditary, the way it is inherited is complex
• There are various different types of psoriasis…Plaque, Inverse, Guttate, Pustular, Erythrodermic
• Smokers have an increased risk of developing psoriasis compared to non-smokers…the toxins from cigarette smoke may also aggravate existing psoriasis
• Triggers of flare-ups include: infections, stress, alcohol, certain medications such as beta blockers and maybe vitamin D deficiency
• According to WHO, at least 100 million individuals worldwide are affected by psoriasis
• Psoriasis is not contagious…so there is no risk of ‘catching’ it!
• No cure, but there are various effective treatments…such as – emollients, vitamin D-based treatments, steroid creams or ointments and dithranol
• Moderate sunbathing can benefit psoriasis…but sunburns should be avoided!

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