Largest global psoriasis survey shows 84% of people face discrimination and humiliation because of their skin

Novartis International AG / Largest global psoriasis survey shows 84% of people face discrimination and humiliation because of their skin . Processed and transmitted by NASDAQ OMX Corporate Solutions. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

• Global survey of over 8,300 people with moderate-to-severe psoriasis is the first to look at perceptions of clear skin[1]

Nearly half (45%) have been asked if they are contagious while 55% do not believe clear or almost clear skin is a realistic goal[1]

Leading experts call for psoriasis patients to accept nothing less than clear skin - more information available on www.skintolivein.com/Ask4Clear

The digital press release with multimedia content can be accessed here:

 

Basel, June 29, 2016 - Novartis today released new results from the largest global survey to date of people with psoriasis. Findings reveal 84% of people with moderate-to-severe psoriasis suffer discrimination and humiliation, with many being stared at in public (40%) as a resultof their medical condition¹. In addition, the results from more than 8,300 participants show that people with psoriasis have very low treatment expectations of achieving clear skin[1].

"Novartis thanks all the participants who took part in this important survey. The only way we can improve patients' lives is to listen to them and work with the community to challenge the status quo," said Vasant Narasimhan, Global Head, Drug Development and Chief Medical Officer, Novartis. "This survey marks our commitment to support the World Health Organization's (WHO) resolution to make psoriasis a global health priority, fighting the stigma and ignorance associated with psoriasis and advancing patient care."

Over 8,300 people from 31 countries took part in the survey, and it is also the first of its kind to explore perceptions of clear skin in psoriasis. This is the largest ever partnership between Novartis and patient organizations, including 25 groups from around the world.

Along with unacceptable levels of discrimination and humiliation, the survey shows that nearly half (45%) of people with psoriasis have been asked if they are contagious[1]. The devastating effect psoriasis can have on personal lives and people's mental health was also revealed, with the survey showing 16% of people admit to hiding themselves away from the world as a coping mechanism[1]. This lack of hope and self-esteem is reflected in the results, with 55% of people stating they do not believe clear or almost clear skin is a realistic goal for them[1].