Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition affecting roughly 1.5% of Argentina's population, and about 30% of those affected may develop psoriatic arthritis, an inflammatory disease that damages joints and can lead to disability if left untreated. To tackle underdiagnosis and improve access to care, four major health organizations are launching a national free screening campaign across the country.
What is Psoriasis and Why Does It Matter?
Psoriasis is an autoimmune, non-contagious condition that speeds up the skin cell turnover process, causing red patches covered with silvery scales. These plaques commonly appear on elbows, knees, trunk, and scalp, but can also affect hands, feet, nails, and sensitive areas. Symptoms often flare in cycles, with periods of improvement between outbreaks. Triggers include infections, skin injuries, stress, and certain medications, according to Mayo Clinic.
When joints become involved, the condition is known as psoriatic arthritis, which can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in peripheral joints, tendons, and the spine.
The Campaign: Who's Behind It and How It Works
The initiative is driven by the Argentine Society of Rheumatology (SAR), the Argentine Association of Dermatology (AAD), the Argentine Society of Psoriasis (SOARPSO), and the Association for Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Patients (AEPSO).
Free appointments can be requested from Monday, August 17, through August 23 via the website www.pedirturno.com.ar or by calling 0800-222-3776 (Monday to Friday, 9 AM–4 PM). Consultations with specialists will take place between August 24 and 28 at public and private healthcare centers nationwide.
⚠️ Warning Signs to Look For
- Red, scaly patches on the skin with white or silver flakes
- Itching, burning, or soreness in affected areas
- Joint swelling, pain, and morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes
- Reduced range of motion or difficulty performing daily tasks
- Nail changes – thickening, pitting, or separation from the nail bed
Beyond the Skin: The Hidden Impact
Psoriatic arthritis can affect peripheral joints, tendons, spine, and sacroiliac joints. Medical societies also warn of its association with increased cardiovascular risk, hyperuricemia, and obesity. The disease takes a heavy physical, emotional, and social toll – patients often face pain, anxiety, shame, social isolation, and work or school absenteeism, as highlighted by Dr. Cecilia Civale, president of the AAD. Silvia Fernández Barrio from AEPSO added that many people live without a clear diagnosis or have abandoned treatment due to access barriers.
Early Detection Changes the Prognosis
According to Dr. Gustavo Christian Casado, president of the SAR, the disease manifests differently in each patient, and a timely, multidisciplinary approach can improve symptoms, halt progression, and preserve mobility. The campaign is not only for those with suspicious symptoms but also for individuals who skipped check‑ups, failed to stabilize their condition, or faced obstacles in maintaining ongoing medical care.
How to Request an Appointment
Free appointments are available through:
- Website: www.pedirturno.com.ar
- Phone: 0800-222-3776 (Mon–Fri, 9 AM–4 PM)
Consultations will be held August 24–28 at participating centers across the country. This is a unique opportunity to get a professional evaluation at no cost, especially for those who have been waiting or struggling to access dermatology and rheumatology services.
For more information, visit the official campaign website or contact the organizing societies directly. Early diagnosis can make a world of difference – don't let the symptoms go unchecked.