National Psoriasis Foundation Releases 2008 Stu...( Psoriasis is a significant proble...),Health

Psoriasis is a significant problem in daily life, survey shows

PORTLAND, Ore., Oct. 13 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Approximately three-quarters of people living with psoriasis say the disease is a significant problem in daily life, according to a National Psoriasis Foundation 2008 survey released today.

The survey of 426 individuals with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis also revealed that their disease influences their daily lives, shapes their feelings about themselves and affects how they believe others perceive them.

"These results are critical to understanding the serious emotional, physical and mental impact psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis can have on one's health," said Randy Beranek, president and CEO of the National Psoriasis Foundation. "This survey underscores the need to continue raising awareness about psoriatic diseases and ensure the public knows psoriasis isn't 'just a skin disease.' It's a serious disease that can have crippling effects."

Among the survey findings:

-- 62% report significant itching and irritation.

-- 61% believe their psoriasis leads others to stare.

-- 57% find their psoriasis impacts their self esteem.

-- 58% express significant feelings of embarrassment.

-- 56% agree others think psoriasis is contagious.

-- 52% avoid public swimming pools because of their disease.

Approximately two-thirds of the respondents have moderate to severe psoriasis, a disease of the immune system which causes red, scaly lesions that often crack and bleed. Almost half of the respondents (41 percent) have psoriatic arthritis, an inflammatory disease of the joints.

The National Psoriasis Foundation conducts surveys biannually to understand the experiences and opinions of people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis and document the impact of these diseases. The Foundation also uses the data to educate legislators, medical professionals and the public about ps
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