Scientists believe there is a link between severe cases of psoriasis and a greater risk of serious health complications.
Psoriasis is a chronic condition that manifests itself through thick, red, scaly and itchy plaques on the skin that substantially affects the patients quality of life. Although doctors have linked it to stress, lower immunity or genetic factors, there is no effective cure for the disorder.
Now there is growing evidence that patients with severe cases of psoriasis are at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
According to Dr. Joel M. Gelfand, assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, excessive inflammation, which is a prominent feature of psoriasis, also occurs in patients with diabetes, heart attack or coronary artery disease.
However, studies have suggested the link between severe psoriasis and these conditions occurs independently of traditional risk factors such as obesity, smoking or high blood pressure.
“We need to educate psoriasis patients about the increased risk of cardiovascular disease so the prevention efforts can be instituted,” says Dr. Gelfand.
Lifestyle changes that may help those at risk of heart and metabolic conditions include a healthy diet, appropriate body weight, quitting smoking and routine screenings for high blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol.