Doctor: New psoriasis treatments available in Belarus

October 29, Minsk . New treatments for psoriasis are available in Belarus. Anna Muzychenko, chief freelance specialist in dermatovenereology at the Ministry of Health and head of the Department of Dermatovenereology and Cosmetology with advanced training and retraining at the Belarusian State Medical University, told journalists on Psoriasis Day, a BelTA correspondent reports.

"Psoriasis is a chronic, autoimmune, non-communicable disease that can eventually lead to disability. However, it is now well controlled, and numerous treatment methods are available. Many pathogenesis factors have been sufficiently studied, and research continues today. New treatments are becoming available, including in our country," the specialist explained. 
 
According to the doctor, all types of psoriasis require their own treatment options. People with psoriasis often react negatively to weather changes, with exacerbations occurring in the fall and winter. Climatotherapy or phototherapy are suitable for these patients.
 
"Topical treatments are essential in therapy, and they are essential for treating mild forms of psoriasis. These are cosmetic products that moisturize the skin and help maintain the hydrolipid mantle that protects it," noted the department head.

Another element of therapy is glucocorticoids, topical steroid hormones. "It's important to remember that they are not as safe; they help with mild cases, but are associated with a high risk of complications," the doctor emphasized. According to Anna Muzychenko, the patient may develop a dependence in the future .

Steroid-sparing medications are also recommended for treatment. "They have a lesser therapeutic effect, but a low risk of bacterial complications. There are systemic therapies; they are necessary for patients with moderate to severe psoriasis," the doctor explained . 

She also noted that high-tech treatment methods, such as genetically engineered drugs, are now available in Belarus. 

Anna Muzychenko explained that psoriasis is a fairly common disease. "About 30,000 patients with psoriasis sought treatment at public healthcare facilities in 2024. The incidence is increasing year after year, and people of all ages and genders are susceptible to psoriasis. Cases have been reported of its onset in the first six months after birth. Ten percent of psoriasis patients are children and adolescents under 18. It can also appear for the first time after age 70. The disease can change in nature and severity throughout life, and its course is impossible to predict," she said. 

The specialist also identified the main risk factors. According to her, stress is the primary one. "Sometimes the patient even notes that an unpleasant life event led to the first appearance of psoriasis. Smoking and alcohol abuse influence the onset and subsequent course of the disease." 

Heredity plays a significant role. If one parent is affected, the risk of developing the disease is approximately 14-20%. If both parents are affected, the risk is 50%.