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Collaboration to Advance Psoriasis Care

In an important step towards enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with psoriasis, the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) has partnered with the WHO Foundation. This agreement, announced on February 9, 2026, seeks to bolster global efforts for better diagnosis, treatment, and understanding of psoriasis, a chronic condition that affects millions worldwide.

A Closer Look at Psoriasis

Psoriasis is often mistaken as merely a skin condition. However, it is a systemic disease that can lead to serious health concerns, including depression, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Sadly, the lack of accurate awareness regarding psoriasis continues to contribute to stigma and discrimination, limiting access to treatment for many affected individuals.

Statistics reveal that only a small proportion of countries maintain comprehensive epidemiological data concerning psoriasis. Without this data, healthcare systems struggle to provide adequate care, leaving many individuals without diagnoses or treatment plans. This is particularly concerning in low- and middle-income countries where healthcare resources may be scant.

Significance of the Collaboration

The multi-year collaboration between IFPA and the WHO Foundation stands as a major milestone. It marks IFPA's dedication to working alongside global health bodies to enhance the management and understanding of psoriasis. The partnership aims to strengthen evidence, enrich knowledge resources, and expand access to necessary care.

Filippa Dunger, Executive Director of IFPA, emphasized the importance of this agreement, stating, "Today, many people, especially in lower-income regions, live without a proper diagnosis. This collaboration aims to change that and offer them choices in their healthcare."

Anil Soni, CEO of the WHO Foundation, echoed these sentiments, highlighting how psoriasis encapsulates the interconnectedness of skin health with broader health issues. He noted, "Stronger data and evidence-based policies will enable countries to make informed healthcare decisions and ultimately lead to improved patient outcomes."

Key Areas of Focus

One of the primary goals of the agreement is to build on existing resolutions and reports from recent years. The efforts will involve updating the Global Report on Psoriasis to include the latest prevalence data and treatment advances. This initiative addresses a pressing need, as it has been over a decade since crucial documents were published, and the understanding of psoriasis as a multi-faceted disease has grown significantly.

Additionally, the collaboration will focus on:

• - Evidence-Based Guidance: Sharing recommendations with member states that can facilitate effective management of psoriasis.
• - Diagnostic Tools Development: Leveraging AI to create innovative diagnostic methods for timely and accurate detection, especially in under-resourced settings.
• - Healthcare Professional Training: Providing education and training to medical professionals to enhance their capability in recognizing and managing the disease effectively.

Changing the Discourse

The collaboration also aims to position psoriasis in the conversations surrounding chronic diseases and mental health, striving to ensure that those affected receive the recognition and care they deserve. About 80% of psoriasis patients encounter stigma, with many grappling with anxiety as a result. The IFPA and WHO Foundation’s joint efforts are crucial to changing this landscape.

About IFPA and WHO Foundation

Founded in 1971 and headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, IFPA serves as a global advocate for individuals impacted by psoriasis, representing over 60 million people globally. It champions initiatives like World Psoriasis Day and the IFPA Forum, working towards redefining psoriatic disease within health systems.

The WHO Foundation, established in 2020 in Geneva, Switzerland, aims to strengthen global health systems through partnerships and philanthropic initiatives. It supports WHO's mission by targeting health equity and responding to urgent global health challenges.

Conclusion

The partnership between IFPA and the WHO Foundation is a significant move towards transforming the landscape of psoriasis care. By improving access to resources, enhancing awareness, and using informed evidence to guide policy changes, the two organizations hope to pave the way for a brighter future for those affected by this chronic condition. As they embark on this journey, it is clear that the impact will be felt not only within the realms of individual health but also throughout communities worldwide, ultimately working towards 'Health for All'.