Rosacea Hinders Social Experiences For More Than 16 Million Americans

Roughly half of rosacea patients refuse certain foods and drinks for fear of triggering a rosacea flare-up. That's according to numbers from the National Rosacea Society (NRS), which designated the month of April as Rosacea Awareness Month to alert the public to the early warning signs of rosacea. The survey also showed that among patients with moderate or severe redness, 72 percent reported that their disease had inhibited their social lives. In addition, 77 percent of patients with the bumps and pimples of subtype 2 (papulopustular) rosacea alone noted that their social life had been negatively impacted, and 85 percent of patients whose symptoms included subtype 3 (phymatous) rosacea, involving thickening of the skin, had been negatively affected. Among the respondents who had the eye irritation of subtype 4 (ocular) rosacea, 71 percent said the disorder's effects had inhibited their social lives. Also, 43 percent of respondents said they had been the subject of stares, misconceptions, rude comments or jokes, and 39 percent had refused or canceled social engagements because of rosacea's effects on appearance. During April and throughout the year, people who suspect they may have rosacea can visit rosacea.org, or call 1-888-NO-BLUSH to obtain comprehensive information on the disorder. Information and educational materials are also available by writing the National Rosacea Society, 196 James Street, Barrington, Illinois 60010, or via e-mail at rosaceas@aol.com.