Psoriasis 2.0: Facebook as a source of disease-related information for patients with psoriasis

Background and objectives: The Internet is a commonly used source of health-related information. Social media allow psoriasis patients to seek and share information about their disease. However, they also involve risks such as misinformation and envy. The aim of this study was to explore the relevance and suitability of Facebook as a source of disease-related information for patients with psoriasis. Patients and methods: Cross-sectional study consisting of an online survey (11/2017–01/2018). The link was published on a German information website focused on psoriasis. We also collected data about the respondents' general and disease-related Facebook habits as well as their assessment of opportunities and risks of Facebook in the context of psoriasis. Results: 101 participants with psoriasis completed the questionnaire. Of these, 75 % reported using Facebook at least once a month, and 72 % of Facebook users stated that they had searched for disease-related information on Facebook. Active members of psoriasis-related Facebook groups deemed Facebook more helpful for coping with psoriasis. 60 % of Facebook users reported unreliable information and 57 % reported sales promotions regarding psoriasis when using Facebook. Conclusions: We found that Facebook is a relevant source of information for psoriasis patients. However, the quality of information offered seems insufficient and needs to be improved.