Study shows major impact of psoriasis

More than half of people in Ireland who suffer from psoriasis believe the illness has a serious impact on their lives, with a quarter saying it has had a severe impact, according to new research.

The research also reveals that patients often have to wait lengthy periods to see specialists and for their condition to be brought under control.

The study shows that the biggest restriction for psoriasis sufferers is not having the freedom to wear what they want, the impact on their appearance, and inhibitions about participating in swimming and other sports. 

The study, commissioned by the Psoriasis Association of Ireland, coincided with World Psoriasis Day, which took place yesterday.

Psoriasis Association Chairperson Caroline Irwin said the research confirms that for many sufferers, the embarrassment caused by psoriasis is impacting on their daily lives.

Some of the respondents to the survey stated that the biggest issue for them has been other people's reaction to their condition. 

Caroline Irwin pointed out that to those unfamiliar with the condition, psoriasis is often dismissed as an insignificant skin complaint; but as we learn more about the impact it has on the lives of those suffering from the condition, we can no long trivialise its effects. 

Another cause for concern from the study of 81 people, she added, was that the medical community does not understand psoriasis well, and only three in 10 sufferers were satisfied with the time taken to bring their condition under control.

Ms Irwin said almost all of those referred to a specialist waited up to three months to get the appointment and it took, on average, a subsequent three years to bring their condition to a manageable level. 

"Clearly, the lack of dermatology services is having a big impact on psoriasis sufferers and we must see a greater investment in these services."

The Psoriasis Association of Ireland can be contacted at:

PO Box 4233
Dublin 12
Tel: +353 87 204 6789 / +353 87 204 6799
Advice line: 087 2046789
(Thursdays only)
or
087 2046799
(Fridays only)
from 10.00am - 5.00pm

[Posted: Tue 30/10/2007]