Quality of Life and Its Associated Factors Among Patients with Psoriasis Attending the Dermatology Department at Public Hospitals in Harar Town, Eastern Ethiopia

<i>Background</i>: Psoriasis is a skin disorder that inflames the skin and joints, increasing susceptibility to obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. It is more common in higher-altitude areas and affects 100 million people worldwide. Understanding the subtypes and treatments is crucial for the management of the condition. <i>Method</i>: The study used a cross-sectional design to assess quality of life and identify factors associated with poor quality of life among patients with psoriasis in the region. The study involved 219 patients. Data collection was carried out through structured interviews with patients with psoriasis attending public hospitals in Harar, eastern Ethiopia. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyzes were performed to identify factors associated with poor quality of life among patients with psoriasis. Variables demonstrating a p-value > 0.20 in bivariate analyzes were included in the multivariate logistic regression model. Statistical significance was determined with a p-value < 0.05. <i>Results</i>: the proportion of poor quality of life was 54.8%. Factors associated with poor quality of life could not read and write (AOR = 14, 95% CI 2.08, 94.2), Duration of more than 5 years (AOR = 3.1, 95% CI 1.49, 6.41), New body site and in disease patients at both sites (AOR = 9.2, 95% CI 2.96, 28.56) and (AOR = 7.2, 95% CI 2.37, 21.95), respectively. Moderate affected body surface area (AOR= 2.98, 95% CI 1.15, 6.41)). And have a comorbidity (AOR= 2.69, 95%CI: 1.01, 7.20). <i>Conclusions</i>: The study revealed that 54.8% of the patients experienced severe quality of life impairment, with factors such as illiteracy, duration of the disease over five years, psoriasis at new sites of the body, moderate body surface area affected, and comorbidities significantly associated with poor quality of life. The study shed light on the challenges faced by patients with psoriasis in Harar, highlighting the need for comprehensive care strategies to improve their quality of life and well-being.