Complete Access to Treatment Across Europe: EUROPSO Calls for Addressing Inequities in Psoriasis Healthcare
Brussels, May 29, 2024 – EUROPSO, the European Federation of Psoriasis Associations, is calling attention to the pressing issue of healthcare disparities faced by individuals living with psoriasis across Europe. As part of European Psoriasis Week 2024, EUROPSO emphasizes the critical need for equitable access to treatment and care for those affected by this chronic autoimmune disease.
Psoriasis, a long-lasting condition characterized by patches of abnormal skin, not only affects physical well-being but also poses significant risks to overall health and life expectancy. Recent studies have revealed that individuals with moderate to severe psoriasis have a life expectancy that is, on average, five years shorter than those without the condition [1]. The heightened risk of cardiovascular disease among individuals with psoriasis contributes significantly to this disparity [1].
Despite the recognition of psoriasis as a risk factor for various comorbidities, including cardiovascular disease and mental health disorders, there remains a concerning lack of visibility of psoriasis within healthcare policies and decision-making processes. This invisibility translates into disparities in market access decisions for psoriasis therapies across Europe [2].
A comprehensive analysis of market access decisions in several European countries underscores the inconsistencies and discrepancies in the assessment of psoriasis treatments. Variations in criteria such as appropriate comparator therapy, patient population, and economic data lead to unequal access to therapies, leaving many individuals with limited options for managing their condition [3].
EUROPSO President Jan Koren emphasizes, “Psoriasis should not be invisible to policymakers and healthcare stakeholders. It is imperative that we address the disparities in access to treatment and care for individuals living with psoriasis across Europe. As we strive towards the goals outlined in the EU Healthier Together Initiative, including the reduction of premature mortality from non-communicable diseases and the promotion of mental health and well-being, we must ensure that the needs of psoriasis patients are not overlooked.”
The EU Healthier Together Initiative, launched by the European Commission, aims to support member states in addressing major non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and reducing health inequalities [4]. While the initiative covers various aspects of healthcare, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and mental health, EUROPSO emphasizes the importance of incorporating psoriasis into this holistic approach to NCD prevention and care.
EUROPSO calls for collaborative efforts among policymakers, healthcare professionals, and patient advocacy groups to prioritize the needs of individuals living with psoriasis. By promoting equitable access to treatment, raising awareness of comorbidities associated with psoriasis, and advocating for policies that support comprehensive disease management, EUROPSO aims to improve the quality of life for psoriasis patients across Europe.
Media Contact: TBC
References:
- MyPsoriasisTeam. (n.d.). Does Psoriasis Affect Life Expectancy? Retrieved from https://www.mypsoriasisteam.com/resources/does-psoriasis-affect-life-expectancy#:~:text=Psoriasis%20is%20not%20a%20fatal,shorter%20than%20people%20without%20psoriasis.
- Value in Health. (2017). Disparities in Market Access Decision Making About Available Therapies for Psoriasis Across Europe. Retrieved from https://www.valueinhealthjournal.com/article/S1098-3015(17)30403-5/fulltext
- National Center for Biotechnology Information. (n.d.). Psoriasis: A Disease with Plenty of Comorbidities: Introduction. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9196664/
- European Commission. (n.d.). EU Non-Communicable Diseases Initiative. Retrieved from https://health.ec.europa.eu/non-communicable-diseases/healthier-together-eu-non-communicable-diseases-initiative_en
About EUROPSO: EUROPSO is the European Federation of Psoriasis Associations, representing the interests of people living with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis across Europe. EUROPSO works to raise awareness of psoriasis, advocate for improved access to treatment and care, and support research initiatives aimed at advancing the understanding and management of psoriatic diseases.
