Global survey reveals 84% of psoriasis patients suffer discrimination, humiliation

Jun 29 2016

Novartis today released new results from the largest global survey to date of people with psoriasis. Findings reveal 84% of people with moderate-to-severe psoriasis suffer discrimination and humiliation, with many being stared at in public (40%) as a result of their medical condition. In addition, the results from more than 8,300 participants show that people with psoriasis have very low treatment expectations of achieving clear skin.

“Novartis thanks all the participants who took part in this important survey. The only way we can improve patients’ lives is to listen to them and work with the community to challenge the status quo,” said Vasant Narasimhan, Global Head, Drug Development and Chief Medical Officer, Novartis. “This survey marks our commitment to support the World Health Organization’s (WHO) resolution to make psoriasis a global health priority, fighting the stigma and ignorance associated with psoriasis and advancing patient care.”

Over 8,300 people from 31 countries took part in the survey, and it is also the first of its kind to explore perceptions of clear skin in psoriasis. This is the largest ever partnership between Novartis and patient organizations, including 25 groups from around the world.

Along with unacceptable levels of discrimination and humiliation, the survey shows that nearly half (45%) of people with psoriasis have been asked if they are contagious. The devastating effect psoriasis can have on personal lives and people’s mental health was also revealed, with the survey showing 16% of people admit to hiding themselves away from the world as a coping mechanism. This lack of hope and self-esteem is reflected in the results, with 55% of people stating they do not believe clear or almost clear skin is a realistic goal for them.

“Everyone deserves the right to receive effective treatment for their psoriasis and work towards the goal of clear skin, but this survey shows the majority of people simply don’t think it’s possible,” said Dr. Richard B Warren, Reader Lecturer and Honorary Consultant Dermatologist at the Dermatology Centre Salford Royal Foundation Hospital, University of Manchester. “Though we may not be able to change the public’s attitude overnight, as dermatologists, we should work with patients to encourage them to strive towards a treatment goal of clear skin.”

Further survey results and a new thought provoking video from body paint artist Natalie Fletcher can be found on www.skintolivein.com, an online hub from Novartis with social media channels across Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram, that is dedicated to educating and supporting patients with severe skin conditions, such as psoriasis. Findings from the survey are also being prepared for submission to scientific journals and will be presented at the 25^th European Association of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV) Congress.