Psoriasis May Increase Risk of Heart Attack

People who suffer from psoriasis may be at greater risk of heart attacks, according to a new study recently published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

This link seems to be particularly significant in young adults with severe psoriasis, who have a 29% greater risk of suffering a heart attack compared to those of the same age who do not have [tag-tec]psoriasis[/tag-tec].

These results hold true even after adjustments for cardiovascular risk factors such as smoking and high blood pressure.

The mechanism underlying this increased risk may be the increased levels of C-reactive protein present in those with heart attacks, atherosclerosis, and psoriasis. [tag-tec]C-reactive protein[/tag-tec] is a marker of inflammed arteries in the body.

[tag-self]Psoriasis[/tag-self] is believed to result from an overly aggressive immune response, in which the bodies own cells attack the skin and skin proteins, leading to inflammation and the patchy skin lesions common to the disease.

At a deeper level, though, this auto-immune response also damages the walls of the coronary arteries, leading to inflammation and obstruction on the inside, which, ultimately, increases risk of heart attack.

Based on this research, scientists believe that [tag-ice] psoriasis[/tag-ice] and coronary artery disease share a common immune pathway.

If you have psoriasis, or know someone who does, remember that risk of heart problems increases with high blood pressure, high levels of fats in the blood, age, gender, smoking, and high body weight. History of diabetes or prior heart attack also increase risk of heart disease. Managing your health is vitally important to reduce your risk.