Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Psoriatic disease (PsD) is a chronic systemic disorder affecting numerous body areas, including skin and joints. Patients' perspectives regarding understanding their disease and dialogue with healthcare professionals (HCPs) on treatment strategies is becoming increasingly important in the holistic management of PsD. The study aim was to determine patients' understanding of the systemic nature of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and the associated burden of living with these diseases. The relationship between patient and HCP was also evaluated. METHODS: Psoriasis and Beyond: The Global Psoriatic Disease Survey was a cross-sectional, quantitative online survey, conducted in patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis with or without concomitant PsA. Here, we report interim analysis results. RESULTS: A total of 1678 respondents from 11 countries were included. Overall, 31% of patients with psoriasis reported concomitant PsA, 80% of whom considered their PsA severity as moderately or highly active. In total, 63% of patients had heard the term "psoriatic disease". Few patients were aware of psoriasis manifestations (PsA, 29%; axial symptoms, 18%) or comorbidities (obesity, 21%; cardiovascular disease, 18%). Among patients with psoriasis and concomitant PsA, 70% reported swollen and tender joints, especially of the finger(s) and/or toe(s). Most patients (84%) experienced stigma and discrimination and reported a negative impact of their disease on work, emotions, and relationships. Overall, 42% of patients had never discussed treatment goals with their HCP. Patients who were dissatisfied with their current treatment (psoriasis, 15%; psoriasis with PsA, 14%) reported incomplete relief of skin symptoms (57%) and joint symptoms (45%) as primary reasons for dissatisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: Despite many patients having heard the term "psoriatic disease", the majority were unaware of the systemic nature and increased risk of comorbidities associated with PsD. This interim analysis highlights the need for patient education, productive patient-HCP dialogue, and shared decision-making in optimal disease management.