ISLAMABAD: Psoriasis drastically affects the everyday life of patients, especially women.

Analysing a survey data of 5,000 psoriasis patients, the Pakistan Psoriasis Foundation stated that 20pc of the women patients said psoriasis was a massive problem in their everyday life compared to only 12pc of the male patients holding a similar view.

In addition, approximately 60pc of the women said psoriasis interfered with their ability to enjoy life compared to 52pc men. Overall, women have greater difficulty dealing with the psychological and social issues brought about by psoriasis.

According to a statement, psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that is clinically evident as raised scaly red skin lesions. International Psoriasis Day is observed globally on October 29 to increase awareness of this skin disease.

“Skin disorders are often chronic, but not life threatening. However, they severely affect the mental well-being of patients. Psychologists who know the impact of the mental anxiety should come forward to help patients,” said Dr Koukab Gulzar, a consultant dermatologist at KRL Hospital.

Psoriasis appears to have a greater impact on women’s lives and early cardiovascular deaths have been reported in the patients, the statement said.

Published in Dawn, October 27th, 2019