17 Jun 2009
Psoriasis sufferers are also more likely to be affected by a build-up of plaque in the arteries, research which appears in the June issue of Archives of Dermatology suggests.
A study based on the analysis of more than 5,500 medical records demonstrates that once age, sex, smoking and history of hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidemia have been taken into account, patients with psoriasis have a significantly higher risk factor for atherosclerosis than those unaffected by the chronic skin condition.
According to the scientists behind the investigation, the finding could have a significant impact on the development new ways to treat psoriasis.
They say that more studies should be carried out to assess whether treatment of cardiovascular or psoriasis risk factors will also improve atherosclerosis in patients.
"In the meantime, we recommend that healthcare providers who are caring for patients with psoriasis be vigilant with respect to traditional risk factor screenings," the researchers write.
"It would be prudent for dermatologists to be familiar with suggested screening for cardiovascular risk factors and recommendations for aspirin use."
The Psoriasis Association notes that, while the disease affects two per cent of the UK population, the condition is often "misunderstood".
Click here to visit the Psoriasis Quick Guide
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