Fit in Your Skin(TM) Launched as the First Health and Wellness Program for Individuals Living with Psoriasis

HORSHAM, Pa., March 25 /PRNewswire/ -- Fit in Your Skin™, a first-of-its-kind health and wellness program specifically designed for people living with psoriasis, is being introduced today through a collaborative effort between Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. and the National Psoriasis Foundation (NPF).

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According to the NPF, psoriasis is the most prevalent autoimmune disease in the United States, affecting as many as 7.5 million Americans.  Research has shown that individuals with psoriasis have an increased risk of developing other serious health conditions, including heart disease, obesity and depression.  Along with physical symptoms like scaling, redness and flaking, individuals with psoriasis often experience a negative self-image, extreme self-consciousness and limited social interaction.    

Led by renowned fitness trainer and national television star, Jackie Warner, Fit in Your Skin™ aims to help people living with psoriasis better manage their overall health. Warner's motivation for driving the program is twofold: "While growing up, I witnessed the emotional and physical struggles my grandmother faced living with psoriasis," states Warner.  "As a fitness trainer for more than 20 years, I know that exercise improves not only your health, it can also improve your overall wellbeing."  

Fit in Your Skin™, which can be accessed through www.fitinyourskin.com, offers online resources and interactive tools to help people with psoriasis adopt a healthier way of living, which may improve both their physical and emotional wellbeing.

"We now know that individuals living with psoriasis are at an increased risk for developing other serious conditions, including diabetes and heart disease, so it is important that they take steps to feel empowered to manage their overall health as much as possible," states Paul Yamauchi, M.D., dermatologist in private practice at the Dermatology Institute & Skin Care Center of Santa Monica, and featured Fit in Your Skin™ psoriasis expert.  "In addition to managing their psoriasis with appropriate treatment, it is very important that people stay active, eat well and keep a positive emotional outlook – three key areas that are addressed by Fit in Your Skin™."

In addition to expert advice from Warner and Dr. Yamauchi, Fit in Your Skin™ features inspiring testimonials from four "program leaders," men and women living with psoriasis who have committed to improving their lifestyles and documenting their journeys on the website.  Visitors to www.fitinyourskin.com may also receive a free DVD companion to the website, which features the Program Leaders and includes a 30-minute exercise routine, with exercise modifications available for people with physical limitations, as well as segments focused on eating well and maintaining a positive mindset.  

The views and opinions shared in Fit in Your Skin™ are those of the participants and are not necessarily representative of the views and opinions of Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc.  Participants were reimbursed for travel expenses to attend the taping of the program.  Jackie Warner was compensated for her time in preparing for and participating in the taping of Fit in Your Skin™.  Centocor Ortho Biotech provides sponsorship funding to the National Psoriasis Foundation in support of the Fit in Your Skin™ program and other educational initiatives.

About Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated disease that results from the overproduction of skin cells, resulting in their accumulation on the surface of the skin, which causes red, scaly plaques that may itch and bleed.  An estimated 7.5 million people in the United States are living with psoriasis and nearly one-quarter of those people have cases that are considered moderate to severe.

About Fit in Your Skin™

Fit in Your Skin™ is a unique health and wellness program developed specifically for people living with psoriasis.  With Jackie Warner, national fitness expert and television star, and dermatologist Paul Yamauchi, M.D., Fit in Your Skin™ provides the tools needed to help the psoriasis community become more physically active and maintain or improve their overall health.  Visitors to www.fitinyourskin.com can access fitness and nutrition tips, an interactive goal tracking widget and information to receive a free companion DVD.  The DVD features a 30-minute, low-to-moderate intensity workout that people with psoriasis may perform in the comfort of their home following consultation with their physician.

About Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc.

Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. redefines the standard of care in immunology, nephrology and oncology.  Built upon a pioneering history, Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. harnesses innovations in large-molecule and small-molecule research to create important new therapeutic options.  Beyond its innovative medicines, Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc. is at the forefront of developing education and public policy initiatives to ensure patients and their families, caregivers, advocates and healthcare professionals have access to the latest treatment information, support services and quality care.  For more information about Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc., visit www.CentocorOrthoBiotech.com.

SOURCE Centocor Ortho Biotech Inc.