To educate, inspire and connect those touched by Ichthyosis and related disorders through emotional support, information, and advocacy awareness month (IAM) globally, an evening of hope awareness and fund raising dinner programme basing on Ichthyosis was held on Saturday, at NEZCC guest house Dimapur along with doctors, police and education departments.
During the programme power point presentation was delivered by Dr.Leishiwom Kumrah senior consultant department dermatology, CIHSR Dimapur.She dwelt on the causes, psychological aspects, other conditions associated with Ichthyosis. The different types of Ichthyosis, the cure and problems associated with Ichthyosis were also pointed out. Further, Dr. Leishiwom also explained that Ichtyosis was not contagious because it was not by bacteria, virus or germs but was mainly caused by mutations in one of over 40 genes that affect the skin which is not curable but can be treated.
She mentioned about the Foundation for Ichthyosis and Related Skin Types (FIRST) which was a family genetic skin disorder, characterized by dry cracked, scaling skin that may be thickened or very thin. She said that Ichthyosis affected people all ages, races and gender and that the disease was usually present at birth or within the first year and continued to affect the patient throughout lifetime.
She further encouraged the participants by saying that there was hope and that everyone should work together for people suffering from the disease.
Dr Victoria Seb Khing whose daughter has been suffering from Ichthyosis, shared her journey and the conditions faced.
She said that such awareness programme should be organized to make people aware of the genetic skin disorder which were rare in Nagaland.
She also said that people were largely unaware of the disorder and awareness would help children facing such problem to be able to face the condition with confidence while socializing with people around them. Such efforts would also help children to live their lives to the fullest of their potential, she said. The programme concluded by distributing Ichtyosis pamphlets and fund raising dinner for people suffering from Ichtyosis.