Severe rosacea symptoms often have a substantial impact on people's work lives, according to a new survey by the National Rosacea Society.

In the survey of more than 700 rosacea patients, 66 percent of those with severe symptoms said rosacea had affected their professional interactions, and 33 percent had cancelled or postponed business meetings because of their appearance. Twenty-eight percent said they had missed work because of their condition, and 28 percent also said it may even have influenced their being chosen for a new job or promotion.

"Fortunately, today medical therapy is available that can effectively control the unsightly effects of rosacea," said Dr. Diane Thiboutot, associate professor of dermatology at Pennsylvania State University. "These survey results underscore the practical importance of obtaining medical help and complying with long-term therapy before the symptoms become increasingly severe."

The survey results also indicated that even moderate cases of rosacea can impose a negative impact on people's work lives. Of respondents with moderate symptoms prior to treatment, 55 percent reported that rosacea had affected their professional interactions, and 17 percent said it might have influenced whether they were selected for a new job or promotion. Thirteen percent said they had cancelled or postponed business meetings because of their appearance, and 11 percent had missed work because of their condition.

The good news is that, regardless of whether their symptoms had been moderate or severe, more than 70 percent of the survey respondents said that effective treatment of rosacea had improved their work lives.

"With rosacea under control, I'm more self-confident in my business," said one respondent, "and confidence builds success."