A NEW U.S. analysis of patient experiences with psoriatic disease highlights significant diagnostic delays, emotional burden, and potential underdiagnosis of psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Findings from the Psoriasis and Beyond Global Study emphasize the need for earlier recognition and more holistic care strategies for individuals living with psoriatic disease.
The survey included 793 adults in the United States with moderate to severe psoriasis, 43% of whom also had PsA. Three-quarters of patients recognized their disease as systemic, and 65% were familiar with the term “psoriatic disease.” However, among those without a formal PsA diagnosis, half screened positive using the Psoriasis Epidemiology Screening Tool, raising concerns about substantial underdiagnosis.
The disease burden extended beyond physical symptoms. Psoriasis had a profound impact on mental health and overall quality of life, with 87% of patients reporting negative effects on emotional well-being and 91% reporting impaired daily functioning. Nearly one-third of participants reported being unable to work or study in the week prior to the survey. Among this group, 98% described the disease’s effect on their quality of life as very or extremely large.
Delays in diagnosis were also evident, with patients reporting an average of 3.7 years before psoriasis was identified and 3.3 years before PsA was recognized. These findings underscore ongoing challenges in early detection and timely management.
The authors conclude that psoriatic disease in the U.S. carries a substantial burden on both mental health and quality of life. Improved awareness, earlier diagnosis, and holistic treatment approaches, including mental health support, are urgently needed to optimize patient outcomes.
Reference:
Armstrong AW et al. Patient experiences with psoriatic disease in the USA: Results from the Psoriasis and Beyond Global Study. Drugs Real World Outcomes. 2025. doi: 10.1007/s40801-025-00499-6
