Psoriasis is a dermatological condition that is more than skin deep.
This chronic skin disease, known for its silvery scales and itchy red patches, has been linked to a whole host of other health problems.
These include heart attack, type 2 diabetes, obesity and Crohn’s disease. Scientific evidence continues to mount that psoriasis is associated with other diseases, as well.
In some cases, the association is quite significant.
One study found that 20- to 30-year-olds with severe psoriasis had a 310 percent increased risk of having a heart attack compared with peers who didn’t have the skin disorder.
And the risks don’t stop there.
In a review this spring of recent research on the association between psoriasis and other ailments, the National Psoriasis Foundation warned that psoriasis patients are at heightened risk for many serious health conditions. The organization urged psoriasis patients to work with their physicians to come up with an appropriate prevention program, and to ensure they are continually monitored for the “potential onset of any health issues related to psoriasis.”
“Our review found that people with more severe cases of psoriasis appear to have an increased incidence of psoriatic arthritis, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, cancer, depression, obesity and even other immune-related conditions such as Crohn’s disease,” said one of the researchers, Dr. Alexa Kimball, in a written statement.
You can also add stroke to that lengthy list.
This summer, University of Pennsylvania researcher Dr. Rahat S. Azfar presented data suggesting that severe psoriasis increases a person’s risk of stroke by 43 percent. That translates into one additional stroke for every 530 psoriasis patients per year.
“Given the prevalence of psoriasis worldwide, these numbers carry a potentially significant impact on public health,” Azfar said at an international dermatology meeting.
Indeed, an estimated 6.6 million Americans have psoriasis, which often runs in families. About 1 in every 45 people will be diagnosed with the skin disease during their lifetime.
There currently is no cure for psoriasis. However, there are many things people at increased risk for the health condition can do to avoid factors thought to trigger its onset – including smoking, obesity and stress. The Navigenics genetic test can help you determine whether you have a genetic predisposition to the condition.
Patients who have already been diagnosed with psoriasis can – and should – make lifestyle changes to reduce their risk of developing the myriad of health conditions associated with it. Lose weight. Exercise more. Stop smoking. Reduce high blood pressure. Control cholesterol. Maintain emotional health. Manage diabetes. Undergo regular checkups with your doctor.
Of course, these suggestions aren’t just beneficial for psoriasis patients. Doctors know preventive measures like these make up the cornerstone for optimal health, and anyone wanting to reduce their risk of disease would be wise to follow them.