Expanding Psoriasis Frontiers: Emerging Treatment Pathways and Advances in Care - Episode 1
The Global Prevalence and Common Manifestations of Moderate to Severe Psoriasis
Panelists discuss how plaque psoriasis affects 0.4% to 8% of the global population, with high-impact areas such as the scalp (up to 80% of patients) and nails (25% of patients) significantly impacting quality of life and warranting systemic therapy consideration.
Patients living with plaque psoriasis face one of the most prevalent immune-mediated diseases worldwide, affecting between 0.4% and 8% of the global population, depending on geographic region. Norwegian countries report the highest prevalence rates, whereas patients across all regions experience similar challenges with disease manifestation. The condition significantly impacts patients’ daily lives through visible skin lesions and associated symptoms.
Patients with psoriasis commonly experience involvement of high-impact areas, previously termed “special areas,” which include the scalp, nails, palms, soles, and genital regions. Research indicates that most patients with plaque psoriasis have at least 1 high-impact area affected, with scalp involvement occurring in up to 80% of patients and nail disease present in approximately 25% of cases. These areas carry particular significance for patients due to their visibility and impact on social interactions.
Health care providers increasingly recognize that patients with high-impact area involvement deserve systemic therapy consideration, regardless of total body surface area affected. The International Psoriasis Council guidelines emphasize that patients experiencing involvement of any high-impact area should qualify for advanced treatments. This patient-centered approach acknowledges that even limited disease in sensitive areas can profoundly affect quality of life, work productivity, and personal relationships for individuals living with psoriasis.
