Emirates Dermatology Society organized a march to raise awareness about psoriasis.   

Dubai, 4th June 2025: The Emirates Dermatology Society organized a march as part of its campaign “Don’t rest until it’s clear” as a community initiative aimed at increasing awareness and providing support for individuals affected by psoriasis in Al Safa Park in Dubai recently. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects more than 125 million people worldwide, often leading to significant physical and emotional challenges. In addition to visible symptoms, individuals with psoriasis may face stigma, mental health struggles, and daily obstacles.

Dr. Ayman Al Naeem President of the Emirates Dermatology Society under Emirates Medical Association and head of the Dermatology Department at Ibrahim Obaidullah Hospital, said the disease affects about 3% to 4% of the population of the UAE, which aligns with global rates.

Indicating that psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that affects men and women almost equally, and is most common between the ages of 15 to 35 years. It can appear at any age, even in infants, but it is rare in early childhood. He pointed out that biologic treatments for psoriasis are among the most modern and powerful options for treating moderate to severe cases, especially for those who have not responded to traditional treatments. These treatments are always successful and very effective as long as they are used regularly, but they are not considered a permanent cure, as symptoms may return if the doses are stopped. He noted that the health insurance system in the United Arab Emirates is one of the strongest systems in the region, and many insurance companies cover these treatments, especially if the condition is documented as chronic or severe. He explained that psoriasis is the result of an immune system malfunction and there is no single direct cause, but one of the most prominent contributing factors is genetics, meaning having a family history, which increases the likelihood of infection and immune dysfunction. This means that psoriasis results from an autoimmune disorder in addition to environmental factors and triggers such as stress, psychological pressure, cold weather, and so on.

Dr. Raghda Al Maashari head of public relations and media at the Emirates Dermatology Society, said, “Through organizing such events, we want to emphasize that through these meetings, we can help break misconceptions, promote empathy, and encourage people from all walks of life to support those affected by psoriasis.” She pointed out that “the walk is more than just an event – it is a statement of solidarity and a step towards building a world where those with psoriasis feel empowered and supported. Together, we can instill hope and inspire everyone to combat the stigma surrounding psoriasis.

Elhussein Abdel latif,, General Manager of Gulf – Arabian Company at AbbVie, stated, “The Emirates Dermatology Society has been a strategic partner for many years, and our continuous collaboration, driven by a shared goal, is dedicated to advancing the standards of care in managing psoriasis. We look forward to shaping a future where this condition is a chapter of the past by continuing our efforts with the community to improve the quality of life for those affected by psoriasis.”