2021

On World Psoriasis Day 2021, the Canadian Psoriasis Network (CPN), the Canadian Association of Psoriasis Patients (CAPP), and Unmasking Psoriasis, an awareness group in Saskatchewan, released findings from Working it Out: A Report on the Experiences of People with Psoriatic Disease in the Canadian Workplace, demonstrating that the accommodation needs of many people with psoriatic disease remain unmet.

The onset of psoriatic disease - including psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis - commonly affects people in the prime of their lives, with psoriasis typically being diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 30 or 50 and 60. 

Significant numbers of people in Canada with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis (psoriatic disease) say their condition has a significant impact on work and that they need information and support on a variety of workplace-related topics to help them navigate their accommodation needs. 

Drawing inspiration from the International Federation of Psoriasis Associations (IFPA) theme of #BeUnited for World Psoriasis Day 2021, the groups are asking employers and policymakers to #BeUnited and support people with psoriatic disease in their work lives.

The three patient groups call on employers and policymakers to recognize that psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are episodic and chronic diseases that can result in disability without appropriate care, treatment, and support - including in the workplace. Initiatives are needed to educate employers and policymakers about the potential impacts of these conditions on patients and their families. Workplaces can make a difference by providing workers with the tools that they need to understand workplace policies on disability and accommodations and supporting workers who need them.