The 29th of June, World Scleroderma Day, is dedicated to informing and raising public awareness about a rare autoimmune rheumatic disease that can affect the skin, blood vessels and various internal organs.
Scleroderma is characterised by excessive collagen production, which leads to hardening and thickening of the tissues. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include Raynaud’s phenomenon, skin changes, joint pain, difficulty swallowing, or problems with lung and heart function. Early recognition of symptoms and proper medical evaluation are crucial for the diagnosis and effective management of the disease.
Although there is no definitive cure to date, modern treatment options, combined with regular monitoring by a specialised multidisciplinary team, can help control symptoms, slow the progression of the disease and improve patients’ quality of life.
On the occasion of World Scleroderma Day, we reinforce the message that awareness, early diagnosis and ongoing scientific research are key pillars for better managing the disease. At the same time, understanding and supporting people living with scleroderma contribute to creating a society with more empathy and less discrimination.
Knowledge leads to early diagnosis. Research creates hope. Support improves the daily lives of people living with scleroderma.
