#USA #New York #Psoriasis #IFPA #UN Assembly

UN General Assembly to Highlight Psoriasis

The upcoming 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly will prominently feature psoriasis, a chronic skin condition affecting about 60 million people globally. The International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) is leading the charge in raising awareness and advocating for better health policies that include the perspective of those living with this condition.

Significance of Psoriasis

Psoriasis is not merely a skin disease; it is a systemic inflammatory condition that often coexists with other non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and depression. Despite its widespread impact, psoriasis remains underrepresented in many health policies worldwide. In 2014, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognized psoriasis as a significant public health issue, marking the first international resolution dedicated to this disease. However, since then, progress has been disappointingly slow.

IFPA's Advocacy Efforts

IFPA representatives will attend the High-Level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases on September 25, 2025, at UN headquarters in New York. They aim to advocate for policies that recognize the unique needs of individuals living with psoriasis. Their strategy includes promoting inclusive health policies that actively involve patients in the decision-making processes.

Voices of Patients

Two influential figures from the IFPA, Frida Dunger, Executive Director, and Kate Reynolds, an IFPA ambassador living with psoriasis, will lead discussions at a high-level debate on September 22. This event, organized in collaboration with Devex, will underline the essential role of personal experiences in shaping effective health policies. As Reynolds puts it, "We are more than our disease; we are individuals entitled to live fulfilling lives. Decisions about our health should include our voices."

The Role of Policy

The overarching message that IFPA wishes to convey is that inclusive health policies are not optional; they are fundamental for ensuring that the needs of the over 60 million people with psoriasis worldwide are adequately addressed. Dunger asserts that the struggle for recognition must move beyond mere acknowledgment to concrete action: "A health policy that excludes any group is not just a failure; it is a gross oversight that can have devastating consequences for those affected."

Conclusion

As the world leaders gather in New York, the spotlight will be on psoriasis—a disease that connects individuals across borders. The assembly is a crucial opportunity to ensure that psoriasis patients are included in global health discussions and that their needs are met through actionable policies. The IFPA stands firm in its commitment to drive this change, ensuring that the voices of millions resonate as health policies are crafted in the months and years to come.

For more information about the event and how to register, click here.