WHEREAS, Psoriasis is a genetic disease of the immune system, which requires steadfast treatment and lifelong attention, and affects as many as 7.5 million Americans, including as many as 882,000 in California alone; and

WHEREAS, Psoriasis causes as much disability as other major diseases, including cancer, arthritis, hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and depression; and

WHEREAS, Anywhere from 10 (not starting with a number) to 30 percent of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis, a form of arthritis that causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in and around the joints; and

WHEREAS, Psoriasis is associated with numerous comorbid conditions including Crohn’s disease, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, obesity, hypertension, heart attack, cardiovascular disease, and liver disease; and

WHEREAS, There are many myths and misconceptions about psoriasis, which directly impact the quality of life of those with the disease and their families; and

WHEREAS, Psoriasis is commonly and incorrectly considered a mere annoyance, a superficial problem mistakenly thought to be contagious or due to poor hygiene; and

WHEREAS, Psoriasis is a chronic, life-altering, and often debilitating condition for which there are limited effective, safe, and affordable treatment options, and no cure; and

WHEREAS, We must recognize those in the forefront of raising public awareness, increasing funding for research to find new treatments, and ultimately finding a cure for psoriasis; and

WHEREAS, Through education and advocacy there is a hope that one day, with everyone’s help, a cure will be found; now, therefore, be it