ETIPs - Electronic-Targeted Intervention For Psoriasis

Main Category: Eczema / Psoriasis
Also Included In: Dermatology
Article Date: 29 Nov 2008 - 1:00 PST

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Psoriasis affects 2-3% of people in the UK and can create both physical and psychological distress. Psychological discomfort is made worse by the visible nature of the condition whereby some people avoid exposing their skin and avoid social activity due to embarrassment. The University of Manchester has embarked on a PAPAA (Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Alliance) funded study to help people manage psoriasis better. The research team includes skin and psychology experts Professor Chris Griffiths, Professor Nick Tarrier, Dr. Christine Bundy, Ms. Binder Kaur and Dr. Sandra Bucci.

The team has designed a program, known as eTIPs (electronic-Targeted Intervention for Psoriasis). This is a web-based programme for people with psoriasis which aims to reduce psychological distress and improve psoriasis, help with coping and managing psoriasis better, improve quality of life, and increase feelings of confidence and positive thinking. Participants will complete the web-based therapy over a six week period and will be required to complete questionnaires at 3 or 4 different time points (including a six month follow-up).

e-TIPs is offered to individuals diagnosed with plaque psoriasis, who are 16 years or over, have working knowledge of the English language, and have internet access. It will be delivered on-line so that it is widely available, and can reach out to individuals who may not wish to discuss psychological complaints face-to-face. Participants can take part at their own convenience and in the privacy of their own home, and can also work at their own pace.

This study which began recruiting people in the autumn 2008 will run until December 2009.

Look out for recruitment announcements via the PAPAA website (http://www.papaa.org ) and local newspapers, radio and clinics (in Manchester only).

About PAPAA

PAPAA was founded in 2007, as a joint venture between the Psoriatic Arthropathy Alliance (PAA) (Reg Charity No: 3055414), and the Psoriasis Support Trust (PST) (Reg Charity No: 1088359), with the aim of merging the original charities into a single entity, becoming a principle resource of information and help for people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis in the UK.

PAPAA