World Psoriasis Day 2024: Bridging the gaps in psoriatic disease treatment for families worldwide

Every year on October 29th, the world recognizes World Psoriasis Day—a day dedicated to shining a spotlight on a chronic skin condition that affects 125 million people globally, including six million in Europe. This year, the focus extends beyond individuals to recognize the family’s role in living with psoriatic disease. EUROPSO joins hands with the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) to amplify this year’s theme: “Psoriatic Disease and the Family”, highlighting the profound impact that psoriasis has on the family unit. Today, EUROPSO calls upon healthcare systems, policymakers, and communities to ensure that every individual and their family impacted by psoriasis has access to the necessary care for full, healthy lives.

Psoriatic disease: A family challenge

Psoriasis is often misunderstood as merely a skin issue, but it is far more complex. This autoimmune disease manifests as red, scaly patches and can also cause psoriatic arthritis, leading to painful joint inflammation and mobility limitations. The burden of psoriatic disease goes beyond the physical—it deeply affects mental health, often leading to social isolation, stigma, and reduced self-esteem.

Families play a central role in providing support, but they also experience the challenges associated with the disease. They bear witness to their loved one’s struggle and face the demands of medical care, financial costs, and emotional stress. In some families, children may assist in caregiving or find themselves as advocates, while spouses, parents, and siblings may also experience isolation due to the visibility of the disease. This year, we recognize that psoriatic disease impacts families in profound, interconnected ways, and effective care must be accessible to everyone affected, not just the patient.

Unequal access to psoriasis care around the globe

Despite advancements in psoriatic disease treatment, many still lack access to adequate care. In numerous low- and middle-income countries, specialized dermatology care is scarce or entirely absent, and the high costs of biologic treatments—essential for severe cases—put effective options out of reach. In regions where healthcare costs are high and insurance coverage is limited, the impact is not only felt by individuals but by entire families who may struggle to shoulder these financial and emotional burdens.

This lack of access affects entire communities. Without proper management of the disease, emergency room visits, work absenteeism, and chronic comorbidities increase, which ultimately leads to higher overall healthcare costs. When one member of a family suffers due to limited treatment options, the entire family feels the impact, reinforcing the need for policies that address care accessibility as a family-centered issue.

How families and communities can support each other

Patient organizations worldwide, like EUROPSO and IFPA, have been instrumental in advocating for better care. These organizations provide essential resources that educate the public, reduce stigma, and empower families affected by psoriatic disease to advocate for themselves. Sharing personal stories and experiences with psoriatic disease encourages individuals and families to seek support, and these groups offer educational materials that help dispel common myths about psoriasis.

Yet, awareness alone isn’t enough. Effective advocacy requires tangible support from healthcare systems and global leaders. A comprehensive response to psoriasis care involves investing in research, increasing subsidies for biologics, and expanding access to dermatology services. A global commitment to equitable healthcare is necessary to prevent families from being left behind in this journey.

How you can make a difference for psoriasis patients and families

On this World Psoriasis Day, here are actionable steps that can help bridge gaps in care and alleviate the burdens faced by individuals and families affected by psoriatic disease:

Educate and dispel myths: Psoriasis is not contagious, and it’s not just a cosmetic issue. Educating yourself and others can reduce stigma and lead to more compassionate communities for those impacted by psoriatic disease.

Support patient organizations: Patient groups provide vital support to patients and their families, offering resources that go beyond medical needs. Consider donating, volunteering, or sharing their messages to amplify their impact.

Advocate for change in healthcare policy: Reach out to local policymakers, urging them to prioritize equitable treatment for psoriatic disease and support policies that make advanced therapies more accessible to all, regardless of geographic or economic barriers.

Encourage and listen to patients and families: If you know someone affected by psoriasis, offer them a listening ear. Encourage them to seek treatment options and to connect with support networks. Simple acts of compassion can make a tremendous difference.

Toward a future of accessible care for every family

A world where all families affected by psoriasis have access to effective, affordable treatment is possible. But it requires a united effort—from governments, pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, and the broader community. Equitable access to psoriasis care is not just a medical necessity but a human right that can uplift individuals and families alike.

This World Psoriasis Day, let’s unite in our call to bridge gaps in treatment, understanding, and compassion. As we honor the resilience of families impacted by psoriatic disease, let’s pledge to build a future where all families, regardless of socioeconomic status or location, have the resources they need. Together, we can ensure that no family feels alone in their journey with psoriasis and that all those affected can live their lives with dignity and support.

Image by serrano1004 from Pixabay