More than skin deep: The damaging effect of psoriasis

PRESS RELEASE

More than skin deep: The damaging effect psoriasis is having on relationships

22nd October 2015: Every relationship has its challenges, whether it’s finding time for date night or disagreeing over whose family to visit for the holidays. But for New Zealanders living with the skin condition psoriasis, relationships can be especially tough.

An online survey commissioned by AbbVie has revealed that for people who feel their relationship has been affected by psoriasis, seventy-one percent (71%) feel embarrassed or self-conscious in front of their partner and a further thirty-six percent (36%) indicated they do not feel confident getting naked in front of their partner. [1]

Psoriasis affects about one in 50 people in New Zealand. [2] However it is not only those in relationships that are impacted with eighty-four percent (84%) of participants more body conscious since getting psoriasis. For those people who are dating and who feel their psoriasis has had an impact on their relationship, the majority (87%) try and hide their psoriasis for as long as possible from their partner. [1]

Specialist dermatologist and Honorary Associate Professor Amanda Oakley said that these findings were in line with her patients concerns. “The reality is that the physical symptoms of living with psoriasis can cause distress, often resulting in feelings of depression, anxiety, and a lack of self-confidence. The impact can also often extend to their partners and to the relationship on the whole.”

The survey also found that people with psoriasis suffer from mental distress [1] and thirteen percent of respondents (13%) [1] report having been bullied about their skin.

Over a third (36%) of respondents report having received a negative reaction to their psoriasis from others, [1] with 63% of people being presented with a questions such as “What is wrong with you?” or “Is that contagious?” [1]

“Embarrassment leads to people with psoriasis covering up, avoiding social encounters and making new relationships,” said Dr Oakley.

To assist with the management and understanding of this challenging condition and to support those living with psoriasis and share tips with the psoriasis community, a patient resource, www.mypsoriasis.co.nz has been developed. The website provides helpful support information about living with psoriasis and checklists to help you discuss psoriasis and your treatment plan with your GP or dermatologist.

The My Psoriasis website also allows patients to receive advice from a dermatologist with Top Tips on how to help manage your psoriasis available on the site.

-ENDS-

About AbbVie AbbVie is a global, research-based biopharmaceutical company formed in 2013 following separation from Abbott Laboratories. The company’s mission is to use its expertise, dedicated people and unique approach to innovation to develop and market advanced therapies that address some of the world’s most complex and serious diseases. Together with its wholly-owned subsidiary, Pharmacyclics, AbbVie employs more than 28,000 people worldwide and markets medicines in more than 170 countries. For further information on the company and its people, portfolio and commitments, please visit www.abbvie.co.nz

References:

1. Survey developed as an initiative of AbbVie. Conducted by Stollznow Research and Insight Advisory. July 2015, where N= 446.

2. DermNet, “Plaque Psoriasis”: http://www.dermnetnz.org/scaly/psoriasis.html Accessed June 2015.

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