The National Psoriasis Foundation, The Dermatology Nurses Association, dermatologists and people with psoriasis join forces to launch Beyond Psoriasis: The Person Behind the Patient

WASHINGTON, DC February 9, 2004 People with psoriasis experience a crisis in self-confidence so severe it can darken almost every aspect of life, from the quality of a persons love life to performance on the job and day-to-day social interactions. People report feeling like social outcasts and being misunderstood by the public. These are some of the dramatic insights gleaned from a new survey of people with moderate-to-severe psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic, life-altering disease that affects more than 4.5 million adults or 1 in 50 people in the United States.

The survey is the most comprehensive study to date to specifically examine the social and emotional effects of psoriasis. It also illustrates the need for a public education and support program for people with psoriasis. Beyond PsoriasisSM: The Person Behind the Patient, is a unique collaboration of health providers, advocates and people with psoriasis including the National Psoriasis Foundation and the Dermatology Nurses Association (DNA). The new program launched today at the 62nd Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).

"Comprehensive care of psoriasis goes beyond treating the symptoms. This survey validates the need for an understanding about how psoriasis can impact a patient's social life and emotional and physical well-being," said Alan Menter, MD, Chief of the Division of Dermatology at Baylor University Medical Center and a member of the Beyond Psoriasis Advisory Board. "I am committed to this program and its objectives to provide education, sensitivity and support to these individuals similar to what is available for other chronic diseases like heart disease or arthritis
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9-Feb-2004