World Psoriasis Day 2026: Young Voices Unite Against Stigma and Discrimination

On October 29, 2026, the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) launches the global campaign "Look Beyond My Skin" to combat stigma and discrimination against young people affected by psoriasis. Over 100 million people worldwide live with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, with one in three experiencing symptoms before they even reach the age of 20.

The Struggles of Young Patients

The dedication of young advocates like Daniela Chapman, a 29-year-old from Panama, and Christine, a 23-year-old from Sweden, showcases the harsh realities faced by many living with this chronic condition. Daniela recalls painful memories from her school years, stating, "Nobody in my class wanted to hug me or sit next to me. Whenever I touched something in the classroom, kids would wipe it off." Such experiences have made Daniela suffer from clinical depression, illustrating the profound psychological toll that these social stigmas can have.

Christine's experiences are similar. Diagnosed with psoriasis at the age of six, she recalls an uncomfortable encounter with a customer at her job in a candy store. The customer scrutinized her appearance, asking, "Can you work here with those spots on your arms?" Despite Christine’s attempts to explain that psoriasis is not contagious, the customer left without purchasing anything. Both women have become active in psoriasis awareness organizations in their respective countries, striving to educate others about the disease.

Christine emphasizes, "An uninformed society is part of the problem for young people. This is why awareness campaigns are so critical. If you don't know about something, you can't understand it."

A Call for Inclusive Spaces

According to Frida Dunger, Executive Director of IFPA, young individuals suffering from psoriasis have been largely overlooked in global health discussions. Many are facing bullying, rejection, and discrimination. Alarmingly, one-third of young patients forgo job or educational opportunities due to fear of prejudice and exclusion. "This has consequences not just for the individuals involved but for society as a whole, as young people unable to fulfill their potential represent a significant loss," Dunger asserts.

The campaign urges for inclusive schools, colleges, and workplaces that treat young individuals with psoriasis with respect and offer them equal opportunities. Additionally, it aims to raise awareness of the links between psoriasis and mental health issues, highlighting the heightened risk of depression and suicidal thoughts in young patients compared to their peers without this condition.

Addressing Mental Health Issues

Psoriasis is not just a skin condition; it also poses a chronic inflammatory risk to other health aspects, such as cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes. Young people living with psoriasis often encounter shame, anxiety, and bullying. Tarlan Oskooei, Chair of Young with Psoriasis, explains that the social repercussions can spiral into a debilitating cycle of isolation and loneliness. “Feeling excluded can lead to social avoidance, which exacerbates their condition,” Oskooei noted.

With the campaign, the IFPA aims to share the stories of young individuals across the world. They conducted interviews with 20 people aged 18 to 37, whose narratives will feature in a series of mini-documentaries. Alongside these stories, IFPA will publish a global report focusing on young adults living with psoriasis, providing a platform for their voices to be heard.

Conclusion: An Urgent Call for Action

World Psoriasis Day and the "Look Beyond My Skin" campaign serve as a crucial reminder that stigma and discrimination against those affected by psoriasis must end. The IFPA and its member organizations urge society and policymakers to prioritize mental health support as an essential component of dermatological care. To learn more about the campaign and the experiences of young people with psoriasis, visit their official website at IFPA.

The IFPA, founded in 1971 and based in Stockholm, Sweden, advocates for the rights and welfare of individuals affected by psoriasis globally, striving for better healthcare, awareness, and quality of life for all patients.