Increase in comorbidities with age among patients with psoriatic arthritis: a multicenter observational study

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) significantly contributes to increased morbidity, reduced life expectancy, and higher healthcare costs due to the burden of comorbidities. This study assessed the prevalence of comorbidities in PsA patients in India and explored the influence of age and disease duration on these comorbidities.

The prospective, multicenter observational study was conducted across seven centers in India, utilizing data from the Indian Rheumatology Association. Data were collected using expert-validated proformas, with comorbidities classified according to the ICD-10 Charlson Comorbidity Index. Participants were divided into two age groups: <40 years and ≥ 40 years.

The study included 533 participants (median age: 50 years, range: 17-81). Comorbidities were more common among older patients (median age: 54 years, range: 41-79). About 38% had at least one comorbidity, with hypertension (17.07%) and diabetes (15.19%) being most prevalent, followed by thyroid disorders (10.13%) and hyperlipidemia (3.94%). Comorbidities were significantly more common in patients ≥ 40 years (45.04%) compared to those < 40 years (18.57%) (P < 0.001). The older group also had higher rates of hyperlipidemia (4.83% vs. 0.71%, P = 0.035) and hypertension (22.14%). Logistic regression revealed a significant association between age and the prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and thyroid disorders (P = 0.003). Among patients over 40, 44.27% had at least one comorbidity.

The study underscores the significant association between age and the prevalence of comorbidities in PsA patients, particularly in those over 40 years. These findings highlight the importance of targeted screening and management in older PsA patients.