Dr. Hoseah Waweru Solidarity Fund: 2024 Recipients Are Announced!

The Dr. Hoseah Waweru Solidarity Fund, named in honor of IFPA's former Presedient of the Board, represents Dr. Waweru's committment to supporting active patient support groups around the world, and particularly those who are challenged to access financial support.

IFPA is proud of the innovative, dedicated work done by national and regional members. This year, we are pleased to contribute 250,000 SEK to support 6 excellent initiatives to support psoriasis advocacy, education, and awareness-raising globally. These are the 2024 recipients of the Dr. Hoseah Waweru Solidarity Fund.

Psoriasis Association of Malaysia

Psoriasis is not only a physical condition. It also deeply affects mental wellness. Research indicates that a significant percentage of people living with psoriasis in Malaysia experience stress, anxiety, and depression as a result of their condition. To address this critical issue, Psoriasis Association of Malaysia is implementing a Breathwork (SOMA) program tailored specifically for psoriasis patients. SOMA uniquely combines rhythmic breathing, trypnaural music and meditative visualization to restore balance and promote overall well-being.

South African Psoriasis Association

A SAPSA member reported, “I literally had a [massage therapist] ask me what is going on with my skin. She didn't want to touch me as she thought I was contagious. I could really sense throughout the massage that she was tense.”

There is low awareness of psoriasis among beauty therapists in South Africa which include hairdressers, barbers and massage practitioners in spas. With the Dr. Hoseah Waweru Solidarity Fund, SAPSA will adapt impactful educational materials created by the Malaysian Psoriasis Association for the South African context. These include informational pamphlets for beauty practitioners and an in-person educational session with a dermatologist and patients.

Psoriasis Association Ghana

Psoriasis Association Ghana is laying the groundwork for the first Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) in Africa. In partnership with Dr. Giovanni Damiani and the University of Milan, the association will establish contact with over 1500 psoriasis patients and also 1500 people who do not have psoriasis to participate in the study. This research will help establish a stronger network with dermatology hospitals and pharmaceutical companies. Ultimately, the results will support doctors to propose appropriate treatment for patients living with psoriasis in Ghana.

Psoriasis Association of Kenya

PAK will conduct and publish a study on the prevalence of psoriasis in Kenya. Currently, limited data plagues the association's efforts to design relevant information and promote the wellbeing of individuals living with psoriatic disease in the country. Credible and comprehensive data will benefit not only PAK, but also their partners and stakeholders, to design comprehensive responses, to promote healthcare outcomes, promote healthcare planning, promote social inclusion of patients, and mitigate discrimination and stigmatization of patients.

Fundapso

Fundapso's National Patient Congress will invite dermatologists, rheumatologists, nutritionists, and psychologists from across Colombia to discuss the latest treatments, research and comprehensive management of psoriasis. Updated, evidence-based information will help patients understand their condition and available treatment options. Patients can ask questions directly to the experts. There will be further informal networking opportunities for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers for foster relationships and build a support network that extends beyond the congress. Live stream sessions for those who cannot attend in person ensure the information and support are accessible to a wider audience.

Psoriasisförbundet

Anxiety, depression and stigmatization – both external and internal, can have a great impact on the quality of life of persons living with psoriatic disease, leading to isolation and loneliness. Depression is one of the main comorbidities associated with psoriatic disease. Studies show that young people diagnosed with both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are hit the hardest. The Swedish Psoriasis Association – Psoriasisförbundet – will investigate how the healthcare system deals with mental health issues in persons with psoriatic disease, and also measure/survey the patients’ experiences. This information will serve as the basis for a future project to address both people living with psoriatic disease and the people treating them.