Recognizing the importance of education and greater understanding, the Foundation for Ichthyosis & Related Skin Types encourages increased nationwide attention during National Ichthyosis Awareness Week, October 3 – 10.

Ichthyosis is the term applied to a group of rare genetic skin diseases characterized by dry, cracked, scaling, and thickened skin. Each year, more than 16,000 babies are born with some form of ichthyosis. It can be a devastating, disfiguring, and even debilitating disease for those who are affected with it. In addition to the numerous medical complications like dehydration, infections, chronic blistering, and overheating, patients with ichthyosis are subjected to psychological issues as well. Patients are often ostracized and concerns of isolation, low self-esteem, and depression are common due to the appearance of their visibly chronic, shedding skin.

Ichthyosis does not limit itself to gender, ethnicity or age. Because it is genetic, the disease gene is passed on from parents to their offspring. In some rare cases, the genetic mutation occurs spontaneously at the time of conception. The disease usually presents at birth, or within the first year, and continues to affect the patient until death.

“The goal of Ichthyosis Awareness Week is to educate the public about this disease, making life easier for those who are affected. Ichthyosis is not contagious, a bad sunburn, or the result of poor bathing habits,” says Jean Pickford, Executive Director of the Foundation. “ I have heard from many of our member families who are educating their local communities about this skin disease during this week."

The Foundation is a national, voluntary, non-profit organization dedicated to helping families with ichthyosis. The Foundation provides support, information, education and advocacy for individuals and families, and supports research into causes, treatment and a cure for ichthyosis.