Psoriasis And Heart Problems

Heart Attack Skin About 7.5 million people have psoriasis and as many as three-million more may not know they have it. According to research psoriasis may be a warning sign for heart problems.

by Kesshia Peyton

Published: Thu, February 12, 2009 - 11:03 am CST Last Updated: Thu, February 12, 2009 - 11:05 am CST

About 7.5 million people have psoriasis and as many as three-million more may not know they have it. According to research, psoriasis may be a warning sign for heart problems.
"What we're starting to understand now is, is sort of the direct link between people with psoriasis, particularly if it's severe, and the risk of having things like hardened arteries, heart attacks, strokes and even a higher risk of cardiovascular mortality," said Dermatologist Dr. Joel Gelfand.
Researchers don't yet fully understand the connection. for now, they suggest that anyone with psoriasis be checked for cardiovascular risk factors.
They also found that younger patients, in their 20's and 30's, who have severe psoriasis, seem to have a higher risk of having a heart attack than older patients with the skin disease.

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steelermom Says:

Thu, Feb 19, 2009 at 1:26 pm

The FDA has just issued a warning on the psoriasis drug Raptiva http://www.newsinferno.com/archives/4778

PsoriasisFoundation Says:

Fri, Feb 13, 2009 at 11:58 am

The National Psoriasis Foundation thanks WKRG-TV and reporter Kesshia Peyton for bringing light to this important topic. Many people don’t know that psoriasis is often associated with other serious diseases, such as depression, diabetes and heart disease.

The Psoriasis Foundation recommends that people living with psoriasis consult their dermatologist to determine the best treatment option.