The Burden of Psoriasis and Barriers to Satisfactory Care: Results from a Canadian Patient Survey

Abstract

Background: The physical, mental, social, and financial burdens experienced by Canadians with psoriasis are relatively unexplored. Objective: To gain an understanding of the impact of psoriasis on Canadians. Methods: An online survey, “Stand Up and Speak Out,” was provided to Psoriasis Education Program users who had given consent to be contacted. Results: Ninety-five percent of respondents had moderate to severe psoriasis, a high proportion relative to similar studies. Respondents reported medical and psychological comorbidities, with prevalence up to fourfold higher than Canadian background rates. Respondents also reported reduced income and increased unemployment, at levels that increased with psoriasis severity. Use of biologics was associated with high levels of satisfaction relative to other treatment options. However, biologic use was not uniform but was strongly correlated with insured status and annual income. Conclusion: In this severely affected population of Canadians with psoriasis, the physical, mental, social, and financial burden of disease was high.