#Kenya #Nairobi #Psoriasis #IFPA #Africa Forum

IFPA's First Africa Forum on Psoriasis

The International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) is hosting its inaugural Africa Forum focused solely on psoriasis, a chronic disease often neglected on the continent. Scheduled for May 7-9, 2026, in Nairobi, this historic summit will bring together health policymakers, clinicians, researchers, and patient organizations to shed light on this underrecognised condition.

Psoriasis, affecting over 3.5 million Africans, poses severe challenges, including limited access to care, social stigmatization, and significant economic impacts. As a chronic non-communicable disease, psoriasis is frequently misdiagnosed or undiagnosed across Africa, leading to unacceptable healthcare disparities.

The Hidden Burden of Psoriasis in Africa

Chronic conditions like psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis remain poorly understood, contributing to patient disability and discomfort. Associated with serious comorbidities such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health issues, psoriasis can drastically affect an individual's quality of life. The physical manifestations of the disease often lead to social stigma, complicating the struggles of patients.

Current estimates suggest that around 1.3 billion people inhabit Africa, with 3.5 million living with psoriasis. Unfortunately, reliable epidemiological data is scarce, making it challenging to understand the true extent of the issue on the continent.

Access to care is alarmingly poor; in Africa, there is one dermatologist for over a million people, compared to 36 per million in the United States and 65 per million in Germany. Out-of-pocket healthcare costs leave many without adequate treatment options, pushing affected families further into poverty.

Forum Goals and Key Focus Areas

The IFPA Forum will emphasize teamwork and collaboration among regional and global stakeholders in addressing psoriasis through three primary focus areas:

1. Local Research - Collecting data specific to psoriasis in Africa to inform better healthcare practices.
2. Patient Advocacy - Ensuring that the voices of patients inform and shape healthcare decisions.
3. Rights & Access - Integrating psoriasis treatment into national non-communicable disease strategies and advocating for essential medications while combating stigma.

Frida Dunger, Executive Director of IFPA, underscores the urgency: “Psoriasis represents a significant public health challenge. Addressing it is essential to building resilient health systems that are equitable.” This year’s forum aims to initiate vital conversations and collaborative efforts to enhance psoriasis awareness and treatment across Africa.

Pierre Celestin Habiyaremye, President of PsorAfrica, stresses the forum’s importance, stating, “People in Africa lack adequate knowledge about psoriasis, which impacts my life and the lives of many others. We will gather experts committed to finding solutions.”

Moderating the event will be Janet Mbugua, a prominent media figure in Kenya known for her advocacy in social change. She remarked on the occasion's significance, stating, “It is an honor to host this forum and provide a platform for millions struggling with psoriasis.” The forum aims to illuminate real challenges and strengthen local efforts to improve health coverage, research, and policy across the continent.

The IFPA, since its inception in 1971, stands as a global advocate for those affected by psoriasis, representing over 60 million individuals worldwide through local and regional patient organizations. This forum aims to lay down strategic groundwork for improving psoriasis awareness and patient support in Africa, helping ensure that those affected receive the recognition and care they desperately need.

In conclusion, the inaugural IFPA Africa Forum represents a crucial step towards addressing psoriasis as a public health concern in Africa. By fostering collaboration among local stakeholders and raising awareness, the forum seeks to empower millions of individuals to advocate for their healthcare needs and societal recognition. Let's ensure that the voices of those impacted by psoriasis are not ignored any longer.