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Psoriasis: a common disease with a profound impact on patients

Picture of Andrea Christopher
Posted by
Andrea Christopher, Global Communications & Company Reputation
27-Oct-2017
Psoriasis is more common than you may think – 125 million people worldwide are affected by this chronic autoimmune disorder. That’s equivalent to 2-3% of the world’s population.

To mark World Psoriasis Day (October 29), we are lending our voice to those of patients and health professionals working to raise awareness of a disease that has a major effect on quality of life. This annual event, organized by the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA), has been helping to advance public understanding of psoriasis for more than a decade.

Psoriasis causes a rapid buildup of extra skin cells that form thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry red patches. However, it is now widely recognized as more than a skin disease as research has shown significant involvement of other body systems.

Several other serious diseases have been associated with psoriasis, including diabetes, heart disease, and psoriatic arthritis, a chronic disease that causes inflammation, swelling, and pain in the joints.

Who is affected?
Women and men of all ages and ethnicities are affected by psoriasis. The disease has a variety of forms. Plaque psoriasis is most common, comprising approximately 80% to 90% of all cases.

UCB is working to improve the lives of people affected by psoriasis. We have spent time with more than 80 patients over the past two years and have developed a deep understanding of their experience of plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Almost 60% of people with psoriasis say the disease causes problems in their everyday lives. They often suffer isolation, preferring not to be seen in public. Patients can suffer from stress, anxiety, embarrassment and exclusion.

UCB has recently made impressive strides in bringing value to psoriasis patients. Our scientists are applying their expertise in the immune system and inflammatory diseases to address unmet needs in the psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis patient populations.

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