IFPA and WHO Foundation Forge Strategic Alliance to Improve Global Psoriasis Care Efforts

Strategic Partnership to Tackle Psoriasis

In a significant move for psoriasis care, the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) has entered into a long-term agreement with the WHO Foundation. This collaboration aims to bolster the worldwide understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of psoriasis—a chronic skin condition that affects over 100 million individuals globally.

Understanding Psoriasis

Psoriasis is more than just a skin condition; it can impact a person's overall health and well-being. The disease has strong links to serious health issues, including depression, diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases. For many affected by psoriasis, the condition poses a severe physical, emotional, and financial burden. Despite its widespread impact, psoriasis remains one of the most misunderstood health disorders today. A mere 20% of countries currently possess reliable epidemiological data regarding this condition. The lack of accurate data has resulted in delayed diagnoses, uneven access to care, and a persistent lack of understanding of psoriasis as a chronic illness.

Goals of the Collaboration

The partnership between IFPA and the WHO Foundation marks a pivotal step in enhancing global health initiatives. This multi-year cooperation will focus on improving research findings, updating knowledge and policy tools, and enhancing access to diagnostics and care. Frida Dunger, Executive Director of IFPA, expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, "Signing this agreement with the WHO Foundation is a crucial moment for IFPA and the global psoriasis community. We look forward to leveraging WHO's leadership in global health for impactful change."

Addressing Challenges Together

Currently, many individuals, especially in low- and middle-income countries, struggle without proper diagnosis and access to medical care. Over 80% of those living with psoriasis encounter stigma and discrimination, and nearly half experience anxiety related to their condition. The collaboration aims to change this narrative by integrating psoriasis care into larger global health discussions, particularly concerning chronic diseases and mental health.

Anil Soni, CEO of the WHO Foundation, emphasized the interconnectedness of skin health with noncommunicable diseases and mental health. "Stronger evidence will empower countries to make informed decisions and incorporate psoriasis into their health systems, promoting progress towards universal health coverage," he stated.

Key Areas of Collaboration

1. Updating Knowledge: IFPA and WHO will work together to refresh the Global Report on Psoriasis, enriching it with recent prevalence data and scientific advances since its last update.
2. AI-Driven Tools: Development of AI-based diagnostic instruments to enable earlier and more accurate detection, especially in resource-poor areas.
3. Healthcare Training: Providing training for healthcare professionals to improve recognition and treatment of the disease.

Through collaborative efforts, the aim is not only to improve psoriasis patient care but to ensure that the voices of those affected are heard within broader health conversations.

About IFPA

Founded in 1971 and based in Stockholm, Sweden, the IFPA advocates for the needs of all individuals affected by psoriasis. It comprises various national and regional patient associations representing over 60 million people globally. The IFPA is committed to redefining psoriasis as a critical component of more robust and inclusive health systems through initiatives like World Psoriasis Day and the Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Conference.

About the WHO Foundation

Established in 2020, the WHO Foundation is an independent organization headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, supporting the mission of the World Health Organization. It mobilizes philanthropic capital and establishes partnerships to promote health equity, respond to urgent health challenges, and strengthen lifesaving systems. The Foundation is dedicated to spreading proven solutions and financing initiatives that foster lasting changes towards health for all.

Through this important collaboration, both organizations aim to significantly enhance the support available to individuals battling psoriasis, advocating for better awareness and comprehensive care on a global scale.