Global Healthcare Study on Psoriasis (GHSP): cohort profile and first findings

Abstract

Purpose: Despite the intention of international psoriasis treatment guidelines to cover all patients globally, disparities persist in the availability and accessibility of adequate therapy in many countries. The Global Healthcare Study on Psoriasis (GHSP) aims to study patient characteristics, disease impact, treatment accessibility and healthcare systems worldwide. This study provides a description and data analysis of 22 countries. Participants: The GHSP cohort was initiated in 2020, and the number of recruiting centres has gradually grown. Participants are recruited by dermatologists at reference centres worldwide. Data are collected using a standardised assessment questionnaire comprising 88 items, administered by trained experts. Findings to date: By 26 October 2024, cross-sectional data had been collected from 3950 psoriasis patients at 130 reference centres in 22 countries on six continents. The majority (55.7%) of patients were male, and the median (IQR) body mass index was 26.5 (23.7–30.1) kg/m². The median (IQR) Psoriasis Area and Severity Index was 5.0 (2.0–11.4), and median (IQR) Dermatology Life Quality Index was 7.0 (2.0–14.0). Psoriatic arthritis was present in 20.2% of the patients and nail psoriasis in 36.7%. Additionally, 16.5% of patients were current smokers, and 26.4% reported regular alcohol consumption. Future plans: By identifying inequalities, special patient populations and country-specific differences, the GHSP will guide the development of strategies to enhance psoriasis care on a global level. Future directions include expanding the study to additional countries and sites worldwide, while transitioning into a long-term global registry of skin diseases, including atopic dermatitis and hidradenitis suppurativa, termed ‘Global Healthcare Registry on Skin Diseases’.