FK-KMK UGM. In commemoration of World Psoriasis Day on October 29, 2024, the Dermatology and Venereology Department of Universitas Gadjah Mada’s Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing (DV FK-KMK UGM), in collaboration with the kawan.KOMPAK community founded by Dr. Arief Budiyanto, Ph.D., Sp.D.V.E, Subsp.O.B.K, held a seminar titled “Empowering Together: A Comprehensive Talk Show on Psoriasis and Vitiligo for World Psoriasis Day” on Tuesday (29/10) at Radiopoetro Hall, FK-KMK UGM.
“This event is a communication platform for patients and their families, especially as these conditions are not well understood by the public, leading to stigma,” said Prof. Dr. med. Retno Danarti, Sp.KK(K), Head of the Dermatology and Venereology Department at FK-KMK UGM.
Psoriasis and vitiligo are autoimmune diseases caused by genetic and environmental factors, not infections, meaning they are non-contagious. “There are many myths suggesting that these diseases are contagious. In reality, autoimmunity occurs because the body’s cells attack themselves. So, there’s no risk of transmission,” explained Dr. Shinta Trilaksmi Dewi, Ph.D., Sp.D.V.E. She also emphasized that patients should be cautious with medication, especially those containing methylprednisolone and cloderma, which must be taken under a doctor’s prescription.
One parent, Rahmawati Novitasari, whose toddler, AH, has had vitiligo since 2.5 years old, shared her experience as a caregiver. “The distance from our house to Dr. Sardjito Hospital is about 60 km. Despite the physical toll, we keep going. Before each consultation, I tell AH that the doctor is very nice to make him feel comfortable,” Rahmawati said.
Psychologist Dra. Sri Kusrohmaniah, M.Si., Ph.D., highlighted that public stigma against visibly apparent diseases can negatively impact patients’ mental health. “Rejection of this condition often stems from stigma, especially as it’s visible. Psychological approaches, such as stress management support and anti-stigma efforts, are crucial,” she explained.
Chiara Lionel Salim, a psoriasis survivor and International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) Ambassador, began her journey with psoriasis at age nine. “I was misdiagnosed several times, making the condition worse with changing treatments. But now I believe psoriasis isn’t a burden, but a privilege,” she shared. Chiara also recalled experiencing discrimination while shopping, where she was barred from trying on clothes due to unfounded fears of transmission.
Several other survivors also shared their stories. One participant, known as ‘BK’ from Gunungkidul, explained how he tried various unprescribed medications, causing his skin to blister before receiving appropriate care.
Through this event, kawan KOMPAK aims to promote education and support for people with autoimmune diseases and their families. The community group hopes that greater public awareness will help reduce stigma and improve the quality of life for those with psoriasis and vitiligo.
This initiative aligns with FK-KMK UGM’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3), Quality Education (SDG 4), Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9), Reduced Inequality (SDG 10), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 12), and Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17). (Isroq Adi Subakti/Reporter).
