Millions of Africans living with psoriasis left behind by healthcare systemsAt the recent International Federation of Psoriasis Associations Forum in Nairobi, Kenya, a powerful message emerged: millions of Africans living with psoriasis are being left behind by healthcare systems that are under-resourced, overstretched, and, in many cases, unprepared to manage this complex chronic disease.
Across the continent, patients face long delays in diagnosis, limited access to dermatologists and rheumatologists, and the high cost of life-changing treatments. For many patients, psoriasis progresses beyond a skin condition into a debilitating disease linked to arthritis, cardiovascular complications, and serious mental health challenges.
Advocacy groups such as PsorAfrica are now calling for urgent, coordinated action to close these gaps and ensure equitable care. Mpho Sithole spoke to Ruth Adjowa Abekah, Director of the Psoriasis Association of Ghana, who has been engaging with leaders, clinicians, and patient advocates at the Forum to address what many describe as a growing but neglected health crisis.