Psoriasis Linked To Heart Trouble

People with psoriasis had heart attacks more than twice as often as people of the same gender and age according to a U.S. study.

"The fact that people with psoriasis exhibit this increased risk for heart disease offers additional proof that psoriasis is a systemic inflammatory disease rather than just a skin disorder," said study leader Dr. Sherine Gabriel, a Mayo Clinic epidemiologist.

The researchers say they hope that the preliminary results may yield additional clues about the mechanisms that contribute to cardiovascular disease.

Gabriel emphasizes the need for psoriasis patients to monitor their cardiovascular health at an earlier age and to take measures to lessen their risks for heart attack, heart failure and other cardiovascular problems.

The Mayo Clinic researchers are scheduled to present the study data at the American College of Rheumatology annual meeting.