#Kenya #Nairobi #Psoriasis #IFPA

First IFPA Africa Forum on Psoriasis: A Call for Immediate Action

The International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) is set to hold its inaugural Africa Forum from May 7 to 9, 2026, in Nairobi, Kenya. This landmark event will be the first dedicated summit focusing on psoriasis, a chronic disease that remains significantly underrecognized and underdiagnosed across the continent. The forum aims to unite stakeholders from various sectors, including policymakers, healthcare providers, and patient organizations, to adopt a collaborative approach to tackle this pressing health issue.

Addressing the Overlooked Burden of Psoriasis

Psoriasis, one of the most common skin conditions globally, affects over 3.5 million individuals in Africa alone. However, the real number is expected to be much higher due to the lack of comprehensive epidemiological data and limited awareness of the disease. Often perceived as merely a cosmetic issue, psoriasis carries significant physical and psychological burdens, manifesting in pain, disability, and reduced quality of life. Many suffer not only from the condition itself but also from societal stigma, which can lead to mental health challenges and economic difficulties.

Frida Dunger, the Executive Director of IFPA, highlighted the necessity of addressing psoriasis as a public health challenge. She stated, “By engaging with local patient organizations and developing a roadmap to tackle psoriasis in Africa, we can ensure that millions of individuals living with this condition receive the attention and care they rightfully deserve.” The forum emphasizes the importance of local research, patient representation, and accessibility to treatment as critical components in improving healthcare outcomes for those affected by psoriasis.

Limited Access to Care: A Major Challenge

Access to dermatological care in Africa remains alarmingly inadequate. Estimates suggest that there is only one dermatologist for every million people, in stark contrast to the United States, which has 36 dermatologists per million, and Germany, where this number reaches 65. Consequently, many affected individuals face significant barriers in accessing proper treatment, often resorting to out-of-pocket payments that can lead to financial hardship.

Janet Mbugua, a Kenyan media figure and advocate for social change, will host the forum. She voiced her commitment to raising awareness about the challenges faced by those with psoriasis, stating, “This platform provides an opportunity to highlight the real struggles people endure and to bolster local efforts in strengthening care and policy.”

Prioritizing Research and Representation

The forum will feature discussions aimed at addressing several pressing priorities:
1. Local Research: Generating relevant data about psoriasis in Africa to better understand its prevalence and impact.
2. Patient Representation: Ensuring that the voices of those affected shape decisions regarding healthcare and policies.
3. Access to Rights and Treatment: Integrating psoriasis into national non-communicable disease strategies and combating the stigma associated with the disease.

The Route Ahead

This groundbreaking forum signals a critical pivot in addressing psoriasis in Africa, aiming to create a united front against this often-ignored chronic illness. Industry leaders and local stakeholders will work together to forge a meaningful path forward that prioritizes the unique experiences and needs of people living with psoriasis. By fostering collaboration and advocating for informed policies, the IFPA seeks to improve not only the healthcare framework around psoriasis but also the broader health ecosystem within Africa.

The upcoming event promises to shed light on the challenges of psoriasis and cultivate actionable strategies that could greatly enhance the quality of life for millions. The commitment shown at this forum is a vital step in bringing psoriasis out of the shadows and into the conversation about health equity in Africa.

The IFPA has long been at the forefront of advocating for rights and care for individuals living with psoriatic diseases, representing over 60 million global members since its inception in 1971. This forum represents not just an event, but a crucial launching point for change across the continent.

Make sure to follow the forum developments and the impactful narratives that emerge as Africa takes a significant step towards recognizing and addressing psoriasis effectively.