A cross-sectional study in young adults with psoriasis: potential determining factors in quality of life, life course and work productivity

Abstract

Background: Psoriasis can have a substantial impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), life course, and work productivity. Young adulthood is a critical, sensitive period of development that includes major life changing decisions. The impact of psoriasis on this vulnerable population is yet unknown. Objectives: To assess QoL, life course, and work productivity in young adults with psoriasis and identify characteristics influencing these patient-reported outcomes (PRO). Methods: An explorative, cross-sectional study was performed in psoriasis patients aged 18–30 years. Individuals completed a set of questionnaires regarding their health status (DLQI, SF-36, EQ-5D), achievement of developmental milestones (COLQ), and work productivity (WPAI-PSO, PRODISQ). Results: Seventy-five patients (22 males, 53 females; median age [IQR], 21.0 [8.0]). Median PASI and BSA, respectively, were 4.4 [4.9] and 4.5 [8.4]. Young adults experienced feelings of embarrassment, impairments in physical health and work productivity, and difficulties in social development. Patients with more severe psoriasis, longer disease duration, higher body mass index (BMI), female patients and patients closer to their thirties tended to be more affected. Conclusion: In the young adult psoriasis population, substantial QoL impairments were found. Female patients, patients with high BMI, or long disease duration in particular tended to experience more difficulties. These exploratory findings indicate the need for further studies in young adults to detect potential clinical predictors for severe HRQoL impairments.

Keywords

• health-related quality of life
• life course impairment
• psoriasis
• work productivity
• young adults