Psoriasis and sport: a new ally?

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Psoriasis is a chronic, multifactorial skin condition linked to increased risks of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases.
• Physical activity is crucial for managing these comorbidities but may be negatively associated with psoriasis.
• Understanding the interplay between physical activity and psoriasis is essential for prevention and management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between psoriasis and engagement in physical activity.
• To determine if physical activity influences the incidence or course of psoriasis.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving 416 athletes and 489 controls, alongside 400 psoriatic patients without psoriatic arthritis.
• Data collected through anamnestic, physical examinations, and doctor-administered questionnaires.

Main Results:

• Psoriasis prevalence was significantly lower in the athletic group compared to controls (1.7% vs. 5.4%).
• Fewer individuals in the psoriasis group regularly engaged in sports compared to controls (11% vs. 21.3%).
• A majority of psoriatic patients (35/44) reported positive effects of sports on their condition; many others cited psoriasis as an obstacle to physical activity.

Conclusions:

• Regular physical activity appears to lower psoriasis risk and improve its natural course.
• Potential benefits may stem from anti-inflammatory, metabolic, epigenomic, and psycho-emotional effects.
• Larger cohort studies are required to validate these findings and explore causal links.