A Canadian online survey to evaluate awareness and treatment satisfaction in individuals with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis

Background Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease associated with comorbidities and decreased quality of life. This survey is aimed to better understand the impact of disease on Canadian patients, and to examine awareness and use of available treatment options. Methods An online survey was conducted using a consumer panel. Eligible subjects reported diagnoses of psoriasis and moderate/severe/very severe plaque psoriasis within the past 5 years, and either: psoriasis covering >= 3% of body surface area; psoriasis on a sensitive area, or current use of systemic and/or phototherapy or light therapy for psoriasis. Results A total of 514 panelists completed the survey; 65% reported current moderate/severe/very severe psoriasis. Awareness of available treatment options ranged from 98% for prescription topical agents to 75% for photo/light therapy, and < 50% for prescription oral (49%) or injectable (35%) medications. A total of 92% of respondents had been treated with and 61% were currently taking prescription topical agents. Photo/light therapy had been used by 38% and was currently used by 7% of respondents. Prescribed oral medication had been taken by 25% and was currently used by 8%. Few subjects had been treated with injectables in the past (10%) or currently (5%). Overall, 24% of respondents were very satisfied with their current treatment. A total of 63% of respondents taking injectables were very satisfied, compared with 38% of those taking prescribed oral medication and 21% of those receiving photo/light therapy. Conclusions Most respondents with moderate to severe psoriasis were unaware of all treatment options; systemic treatments were not commonly utilized. Treatment satisfaction rates were low, highlighting the need to ensure greater patient education on and use of available therapeutic options.