551 No racial differences in mental health comorbidities in psoriasis patients

Little data exist on the impact of psoriasis on mental health among different races. This study sought to evaluate the relationship between psoriasis and mental health in patients from different racial backgrounds. We performed a nationwide, cross-sectional study evaluating 7,519,662 (weighted) patients, comparing white patients versus patients with skin of color (SOC), using 2004-2017 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS). Overall, no significant differences in mental health outcomes existed between white and SOC patients with psoriasis. Psychological distress, as measured by Kessler 6-Item Psychological Distress Scale (K6), was similar between white and SOC patients [4.132 (95% CI, 3.679-4.586) and 3.710 (95% CI, 2.932-4.488), p=0.407]. Depression, as measured by Patient Health Questionnaire 2 (PHQ2), was similar between white and SOC patients [0.886 (95% CI, 0.744-1.027) and 0.748 (95% CI, 0.506-0.989), p=0.385]. Overall mental health, as measured by Mental Component Summary (MCS), was similar between white and SOC patients [49.959 (95% CI, 48.979-50.939) and 50.257 (95% CI, 48.449-52.065), p=0.789]. Perceived mental health state, as measured by Perceived Mental Health Status (MNHLTH), was similar between white and SOC [2.159 (95% CI, 2.065-2.253) and 2.103 (95% CI, 1.911-2.294), p=0.603]. Clinicians should consider screening for and managing mental health comorbidities in psoriasis patients of all racial backgrounds. Because treating psoriasis effectively is associated with mental health improvement, it is important to advocate for better access for many patients with SOC and those from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds.