Report: Psoriasis in America in 2018

Recently released psoriasis survey results reveal that only 10 percent of patients feel their condition is under control with their current treatment plans; meanwhile, their symptoms—and the mental emotional effects of those symptoms—are overwhelming. The survey, "Psoriasis In America 2018," highlights diagnosis, treatment and quality of life of people with psoriasis, based on responses from 1,270 patients.

Itching was the most common symptom (89 percent) and considered the most difficult to manage. And two-thirds of respondents said they experience itchy or flaking skin seven days a week, and 57 percent experience bleeding skin at least once weekly.

Some key points findings from this year's results include:

• 46 percent have moderate psoriasis (3-10 percent of body), and 31% have severe psoriasis (more than 10 percent)
• In the previous year, 45 percent experienced more than 10 psoriasis flares, with more than 4 in 10 experiencing a flare when they took the survey
• Only a third currently use a biologic or small molecule medication; nearly half have never tried them, with the most common reasons being side effects, financial issues and doctors not recommending
• Lifestyle approaches to controlling psoriasis and symptoms include increasing hydration (about 3/4) and leveraging natural sunlight (55%)
• More than half have never experienced remission, with less than one in 10 in remission when they took the survey

The survey was launched by Health Union, which owns and operates 19 chronic condition-specific communities, including PlaquePsoriasis.com.