Study on the psychosocial effects of climatotherapy for psoriasis

The climate and geographical location in northern Europe reduce access to the sun. Climatotherapy is a treatment option that involves moving the patient to a warmer region with a high UV index. Young patients with psoriasis can be particularly burdened by the conditions, and studies have shown alink between psoriasis and mood disorders . Patients who have undergone climatotherapy often report positive psychological effects after treatment, but this has not yet been studied.

To explore the psychosocial effects of climatotherapy , an observational study was conducted by the Diagnostic Center Dermatology. Thirty-four participants (median age 24 years) underwent a three-week treatment in Gran Canaria (Spain) and answered questionnaires on the psychosocial aspects of the conditions.

Climatotherapy was associated with significantly reduced scores in HADS, PSS-10, PSQ, EQ-VAS, DLQI and itch intensity at the end of treatment and 3 months after completion of treatment compared to the beginning of treatment.

The results suggest that climatotherapy not only has an impact on skin psoriasis, but also improves symptoms of anxiety, depression, perceived stigma, stress, quality of life, self-perception of overall health and itch intensity. The results can help in the decision-making process to select a suitable treatment for young patients with psoriasis.