Evaluating the economic burden of psoriasis in the United States

Background: Psoriasis has significant economic impact on patients. However, its total economic burden has not been fully quantified. Objectives: To assess the annual economic burden of psoriasis in the United States. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted to obtain estimates of the components of the economic burden of psoriasis. Prevalence estimates were used to estimate the 2013 psoriasis population. Incremental medical costs were calculated based on studies that compared psoriasis patients and controls. Productivity loss was estimated using measures of presenteeism, absenteeism, and unemployment. Reductions in health-related quality of life (HRQOL) were calculated from survey responses. Results: The prevalence of psoriasis in the US was estimated to be 7.4 million in 2013. Comparatively, psoriasis patients incurred incremental medical costs of $2284, experienced a $2203 reduction in HRQOL, and a $1935 reduction in productivity. The total burden of psoriasis was estimated as $35.2 billion, with $12.2 billion in incremental medical costs (35%), $11.8 billion from reduced HRQOL (34%), and $11.2 billion from productivity losses (32%). Limitations: This study is constrained by the scope and populations of the existing literature. Conclusions: The economic burden of psoriasis in the US is significant, with a majority of it coming from indirect costs.