Psoriasis – a global health challenge Leading experts gather in Stockholm for 3rd World Psoriasis & Psoriatic Arthritis Conference
Today more than 1 100 medical professionals and patient advocates from 67 countries are gathering in Stockholm for the 3rd World Psoriasis & Psoriatic Arthritis Conference, arranged by the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations, IFPA. The theme for the conference, “Psoriasis – a global health challenge” reflects the fact that more than 125 million people worldwide suffer from psoriasis.
The purpose of the World Psoriasis & Psoriatic Arthritis Conferences is to provide a forum for researchers and clinicians active within the fields of dermatology and rheumatology to present and discuss the most recent developments in research, medicine and technology, pertaining to psoriatic disease. The conference has been held twice previously, in 2006 and 2009. This time the focus lies with the global aspects of the disease, the significant co-morbid conditions that are associated with psoriasis, such as cardiovascular issues, and the latest scientific facts regarding the genetics and immunology of psoriasis and how it can be treated most efficiently and effectively.
Dr. Alan Menter, President of the 3rd World Psoriasis & Psoriatic Arthritis Conference and Chairman of the Scientific Executive Committee points out the importance of the conference as a platform for medical education:
“Significant and important developments have occurred since the prior conference three years ago, both from an understanding of the pathogenesis of the disease as well as therapeutically. Psoriasis can no longer be considered a “mere skin disease”, as a significant proportion of the worldwide psoriasis population will also have arthritis and potentially be candidates for other systemic disease. It is hoped that this conference will allow all involved in improving the day to day quality of life of the psoriatic population worldwide the ability to implement these advances for the benefit of all.”
Mr. Lars Ettarp, President of IFPA, highlights the unique aspect of a scientific conference organized by a patient organization:
“As a preparation for the conference IFPA’s member organizations were asked what issues they as patient representatives consider important to the global psoriasis community. Several of these were then integrated into the program for scientific plenary discussion.”
That psoriasis is a global health challenge that needs to be taken seriously, is also emphasized by Mr. Ettarp:
“Psoriasis is one of the most common diseases in the world and there is a strong need for a concerted effort to gain recognition of its severe impact on a person’s life, family and community. With joint efforts from both patients and physicians, we hope for a better understanding of the psoriasis patients’ situation and acceptance of the disease’s severity. It is time that psoriasis is taken more seriously to allow people worldwide to have access to proper care and treatment, and thereby also the ability to live a good life despite a lifelong disease.”
For more information, please contact:
Barbra Bohannan, IFPA Director of Communications and Secretary of the Scientific Executive Committee, barbra.bohannan@pso.se, +46 700 929 614. Please read more about the conference on www.ifpaworldconference.com. Follow the proceedings on Twitter @PsoriasisIFPA #WPPAC.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic, noncommunicable, autoimmune-related systemic disease that has a great impact on the daily lives of the more than 125 million people worldwide who suffer from the disease, as well as their families and communities. Psoriasis is also linked to a number of co-morbid conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and gastrointestinal disease. Up to 42% of persons suffering from psoriasis also have psoriatic arthritis, a condition that can be severely crippling.
About IFPA
The International Federation of Psoriasis Associations, IFPA, is a nonprofit umbrella organization made up of psoriasis associations from around the world. Today IFPA has 48 member associations. IFPA unites psoriasis associations so that their global campaign for improved medical care, greater public understanding and increased research will improve the lives of the more than 125 million people who live with psoriatic disease. IFPA holds Special Consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council, and is a member of IAPO, the International Alliance of Patients’ Organizations. For more information about IFPA, visit