Scoping Review Analyzed Psoriasis in Indigenous Groups
Researchers studied psoriasis prevalence across 13 indigenous populations on six continents in a 2026 review.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Diseases — General
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A 2026 scoping review published in Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia examined psoriasis rates among 13 indigenous populations across six continents. The findings revealed notable variations in prevalence, including instances of zero reported cases in several groups.
Why it matters
Understanding these prevalence differences helps researchers explore the complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and socioeconomic factors in psoriasis. The results also highlight how limited diagnostic access in some regions may influence documented disease rates.
The review analyzed 15 studies selected from an initial pool of 30 candidates. Researchers identified zero psoriasis prevalence in groups including the Taiwan Ami, American Samoan, Tanzanian Maasai, and Aboriginal groups in Brazil and Peru.
The players
Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia
This is a peer-reviewed scientific journal that publishes research on dermatology and skin-related health conditions.
National Psoriasis Foundation
This is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing information, support, and advocacy for individuals affected by psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
The details
The analysis indicates a 5.7% psoriasis prevalence among the Inuit of Tasiilaq, Greenland, which stands against a national comparator of 1.1% to 1.34%. Meanwhile, the Sami people of Norway showed a 1.4% prevalence rate within the study findings.
Timeline
The scoping review was published in 2026.
The National Psoriasis Foundation source was accessed on October 1, 2026.
Health Landscape
This research follows a pattern set by the National Psoriasis Foundation's global health research initiatives in mapping disease prevalence. It expands the scientific understanding of how genetic and environmental factors shape health outcomes across diverse global populations.
These findings emphasize that medical providers should consider diverse genetic and environmental backgrounds when assessing psoriasis risks. Patients living in areas with lower diagnostic access may face challenges in receiving timely identification and treatment for skin conditions.
The takeaway
Large-scale reviews show that psoriasis prevalence is not uniform and may be significantly influenced by local diagnostic capabilities and unique environmental factors. Public health efforts can use these insights to better target resources toward populations that may be currently underserved.
Further reading
For more information on how skin conditions are monitored internationally, visit the Diseases — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Ajmc.
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