[위클리 건강] ‘Psoriasis’, a silvery white dead skin that reduces quality of life… “30% of patients give up treatment”

Fingers of a patient with ‘psoriatic arthritis’ [연합뉴스 자료사진]

◇ Psoriasis Society presents new severity criteria… Avoid drinking, smoking, and skin irritation

Since psoriasis is an immunological disease, it is difficult to completely prevent recurrence. Therefore, the treatment goal is to improve the lesion through continuous management and maintain it for a long time.

Treatment methods include topical treatment with medication, phototherapy with exposure to light, systemic treatment with medication, and complex treatment that combines several treatments.

These days, patients’ expectations are growing as biological agents with improved treatment effectiveness are introduced.

The Psoriasis Society recently followed suit and proposed new severity standards and treatment goals for psoriasis.

Instead of reducing the number of psoriasis severity scores, the key to this treatment standard is to include psoriasis in special areas (scalp, nails, soles of hands, soles, genitals, etc.) that have a significant impact on the patient’s quality of life in determining the severity.

Professor Bang Cheol-hwan of the Department of Dermatology at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital of the Catholic University of Korea said, “We have clarified the severity criteria by specifying the area and severity of psoriasis involvement in special areas,” adding, “Through this, we have established a basis for using biological drugs or new psoriasis drugs for patients suffering from psoriasis in special areas.” “It has meaning,” he explained.

Experts advise that to prevent psoriasis from worsening, you should refrain from drinking or smoking and avoid actions that hurt or irritate the skin. This includes tattooing or scrubbing too hard.

Especially when taking a bath, you should absolutely avoid forcibly peeling off psoriasis skin with your hands or a towel.

Professor Kim Hye-seong of the Department of Dermatology at Incheon St. Mary’s Hospital of the Catholic University of Korea said, “If psoriasis is treated with biological agents in the early stages, you can live without skin lesions to the point where you forget that you are a patient.” He added, “If you maintain a regular lifestyle and get a timely diagnosis from a dermatologist, “Treatment is important,” he urged.

bio@yna.co.kr

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2024/11/23 07:00 Sent

How does psoriasis⁢ impact more than just physical ⁢health, and how can ⁢we create a more ​supportive and ⁢understanding environment for individuals living with this ​condition?

This is a great article illustrating the⁤ impact of psoriasis on individuals and emphasizing the need for awareness and improved treatment. Here are some open-ended questions designed to spark discussion and‌ diverse viewpoints, organized thematically:

**Impact of Psoriasis:**

* **Beyond the physical:** How do‌ you think the social stigma surrounding psoriasis adds to the burden of the disease? How ⁢can we encourage more open and supportive conversations about skin conditions?

* **The invisible struggles:** The article mentions‌ anxiety and depression experienced by psoriasis⁣ patients. How can we better support‌ the mental health needs of those living with chronic skin conditions?

* **Quality of life:** In what ways does‌ psoriasis impact daily life beyond the visible symptoms? How can individuals with ‍psoriasis find strategies to manage their condition⁣ and live fulfilling lives?

**Treatment and Management:**

* **Personalized approach:** The ‌article highlights the ‍diverse nature of psoriasis. How can healthcare professionals better tailor treatment plans to individual needs and preferences?

* **New ⁣treatment landscape:** The introduction of biological agents is mentioned​ as a positive development. What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of‌ these treatments, and who might benefit most from them?

**Prevention and Public Awareness:**

* **Lifestyle factors:** While genetics play a role, lifestyle ‍choices can influence psoriasis. What practical steps can be taken to mitigate triggers and manage symptoms?

*⁤ **Breaking down⁢ taboos:** How can we promote greater understanding and empathy for people living with psoriasis? What role can media, education, and advocacy play in changing attitudes?

**Emerging Trends and Research:**

* **Future directions:** What are some promising areas of research that could lead to new treatments or cures for psoriasis?

* **Global perspective:** How does the prevalence and⁣ impact ‌of psoriasis vary across different cultures and ⁣populations? What challenges and opportunities exist in addressing this ⁤global​ health issue?

​ ** For the ‌Interview:**

* Divide the interview into thematic sections based on the questions above.

* Begin each section with an introduction summarizing the⁣ key topic.

* Use the open-ended questions ⁤to guide the conversation while allowing the interviewee‍ to share their personal insights, experiences, and perspectives.

Remember, the goal is to have ‌a meaningful and engaging discussion that‍ sheds light on⁣ the various aspects of psoriasis‌ and how we can better support those affected by it.