World Psoriasis Day 2019: a clear view of the road ahead

Today, we join with the global psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis community to celebrate World Psoriasis Day, the annual awareness initiative sponsored by the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) to connect patients with information about their disease and treatment options, and to help assure that their voice is heard by the world. This year’s theme of CONNECTED, focuses on the importance of bringing patients access to resources and support for everyday life and management. UCB is a partner of IFPA, an international patient advocacy organization, working together to make a lasting difference in the lives of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis patients.

For UCB, today is a time of commitment for people living with psoriatic diseases. Over the past ten years, UCB has worked closely with these patient communities to understand the underlying nature of their disease as well as the complex ways they affect quality of life. Our work has always been driven by pioneering science that has led to treatment options for patients with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, as well as the full spectrum of axial spondyloarthritic diseases. Our work is always guided by these patients’ real-world needs, and today, we're continuing on this journey with them to challenge established standards of care and bring new levels of value to patients.  

The most widely known psoriatic disease, psoriasis, is a common, immune-mediated, inflammatory disease that affects the lives of about 125 million people worldwide. Psoriasis is more than a skin disease and can have a negative impact on psychological and social well-being in people living with psoriatic diseases, particularly women. Approximately 46% say they are often or always depressed because of their condition. Women living with psoriasis often face unique challenges and UCB is working to create differentiated solutions for these patients through all stages of life.

World Psoriasis Day is an important time to rally awareness about this disease burden, not just among those living with it, but for others who may be able to understand and help ease the burden of stigma that still surrounds psoriasis. It is also a day to look forward, and UCB shares our confidence and commitment to the future with the global psoriasis community. 

Find out more about psoriasis in our infographic and listen to testimonials of people living with the disease.