The first patient support group for psoriasis sufferers concluded it’s inaugural meeting today in Bahrain. The meeting, sponsored by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, aims to improve the quality of life of psoriasis sufferers by offering patients the opportunity of interacting with leading experts such as dermatologists and physiatrists, as well as other patients suffering from the disease. The meeting was attended by over 40 psoriasis patients.
Psoriasis is a highly visible, long-lasting skin disease. Psoriasis can affect both men and women and is visible on the skin in the form of silvery white scales that can sometimes be very itchy. In patients suffering from psoriasis there is abnormal cell regeneration where the cells embedded in the epidermis regenerate much faster than in normal individuals and stack up on the surface of the skin.
The meeting included a presentation by Dr. Nidhal Khalifa, Consultant Dermatologist and Head of Dermatology Department, Salmaniya Medical Complex, Bahrain, on improving the quality of life for those living with psoriasis. Dr. Khalifa adds, “Living with psoriasis can present significant challenges to the patient. The introduction of the first patient support group here in Bahrain is a valuable step forward and represents a firm commitment to improving their lives by providing education and the necessary support to lead as normal a life as possible.”
Due to the visible effects of the disease, psoriasis patients are particularly prone to stress and in some cases depression. Dr. Hamid Abdullah, Consultant Psychologist and Sociologist, Psychology Hospital, Bahrain, explains, “Many experts agree that stress acts as an important trigger in the onset of psoriasis. Triggering factors are events or conditions that cause psoriasis to flare up or worsen and often include the death of a family member, matrimonial problems, problems with colleagues at work, and financial worries. For patients with moderate to severe psoriasis, the help of a psychiatrist can be highly beneficial to help patients manage their stress levels and reduce flare ups.”
The meeting concluded with patient testimonials specifically designed to help other members of the group successfully manage the disease. The testimonials confirmed that early and aggressive treatment allows patients to live as normal a life as possible, significantly improving the quality of life and reducing the incidence of psoriasis flare-ups.
About Wyeth-
Wyeth is a global leader and research based company in prescription pharmaceuticals, non-prescription consumer health care products and pharmaceuticals for animal health. Wyeth Pharmaceuticals products are sold in more than 140 countries, and its product portfolio includes innovative treatments across a wide range of therapeutic areas. Wyeth’s worldwide resources include 52,000 employees, manufacturing facilities on four continents and a unique research and technology base encompassing small molecules, vaccines and biotechnology. With this depth of resources, Wyeth Pharmaceuticals will continue to lead the way in the development of novel therapies that address critical global health needs.
In 1963, Wyeth Pharmaceuticals opened an office in Egypt and two years later established itself in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the UAE. It expanded its regional presence to the UAE in 1995. In 2004 Wyeth Pharmaceuticals established its Middle East & North Africa affiliate in Dubai, UAE.
