Conditions covered:
Psoriasis
Psoriatic Arthritis

About Psoriasis:
Psoriasis is non contagious.
It Affects up to 5% of the population.
Cause is multi factorial, involving a genetic predisposition with patient specific trigger factors initiating outbreaks or flare ups.
Appearance as raised red patches, topped with silvery, waxy scales, anywhere on the body, but most commonly on knees, elbows and scalp.
Diagnosis – There are at least 7 different types which requires an initial accurate diagnosis and treatment by a Dermatologist.

Psoriatic Arthritis:
This affects up to 30% of Psoriasis Sufferers.
Usually involves the neck, lower back and the small joints of the body.
Diagnosis and treatment is best done by a Rheumatologist.
Psoriasis is at present incurable.

Links to online information:
NZ Dermatologists in your area and information about Psoriasis can be found at
www.dermnetnz.org/index.html
The National Psoriasis Foundation, Oregon, USA. www.psoriasis.org
American Academy of Dermatology www.aad.org
The Psoriasis Arthropathy Alliance (PAA) UK http://www.thepaa.org
International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA)  http://www.ifpa-pso.org/t1.aspx

Research:
We encourage research and offer willing sufferers to take part in well designed Clinical Trials.

Support group aims:
Educate sufferers, their associates and the public about Psoriasis and its treatments.
Support sufferers and their associates.
Distribute new information and research results.
Establish Regional Support Groups.
Encourage research into new treatments and potential cures.

Support group activities:
"Psor News", the National newsletter is published 2 to 3 times a year.
An Awareness Campaign is conducted once every 2 years.
Fund raising
Printing of Pamphlets, Booklets and Posters etc.
Maintain membership lists
Maintain contact with Government Departments, Health Authorities, Pharmaceutical Companies and Psoriasis groups throughout the world.

Contact details:
Bev Perriam
Postal address: 266 Conyers St, Invercargill, 9812
Phone: 03 216 8662
Email: psoriasis.info@nzord.org.nz