The psychological and social burdens of psoriasis

Abstract

Psoriasis imposes psychological and social burdens on sufferers, in addition to the physical toll. A recent survey of 502 people with moderate-to-severe psoriasis discovered that 38% of patients with psoriasis experience disease-related disruption in day-to-day activity, including work, school, interpersonal relationships, recreational activities, and intimacy. Discrimination, lack of self-confidence, and feelings of isolation, anger, and hopelessness are also quite common. In addition, another survey of 1000 adult Americans without psoriasis was conducted to determine the awareness of psoriasis by the general public. This survey confirmed a low level of awareness and understanding of the disease among people without psoriasis, suggesting that a lack of sensitivity may contribute to the social burdens of suferers.