News Canada - Website becomes virtual resource for Canadians living with psoriasis

(NC)—With an online community of more than 2,500 people, Psoriasis Support Canada has become a vital resource for Canadians impacted by psoriasis. The website provides a national forum for individuals to share their thoughts and feelings on a disease that can significantly affect an individual's quality of life – both physically and emotionally.

An estimated 15 million Canadians are using the internet from home, and 56 per cent are choosing to go online to search specific disease information (Stats Canada, 2008). Psoriasis Support Canada (www.psoriasissupport.ca) was created for the more than one million Canadians with psoriasis. The online community has become the go-to site for people to share their experiences, strength and hope in dealing with psoriasis. The program, which has content in both English and French, provides a portal to the latest in news, research, and practical tips that can help psoriasis sufferers, their families and friends to better understand, manage and treat the disease. Information on psoriasis treatments, such as biologic and other drug therapies, is also updated regularly.

On the discussion board and testimonial section, hundreds of Canadians have posted motivating messages at www.psoriasissupport.ca. These messages remind readers that they are not alone, and offer support; for example, “I continue to play piano, even though psoriasis sometimes makes it painful. I continue to do all the things I like to do and indeed wear a short sleeve shirt even though I have noticeable psoriasis on my left elbow. Life is what we make it and it sure makes it easier if we strive to make it good - all the best my fellow psoriasis sufferers.”

Psoriasis is a chronic (ongoing and often reoccurring) skin condition, characterized by patches of red and usually scaly skin. Psoriasis can range in severity and affect any part of the body. Psoriasis usually occurs on the scalp, elbows, knees, lower back and genitals, often in the same place on both sides of the body. It can also appear in the fingernails or toenails.

You can find more information or join this online community at www.psoriasissupport.ca.

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