Comorbidities in patients with psoriasis: The role of the dermatologist

Psoriasis, the most common dermatologic immune-mediated disease, affects 2% of the population and is associated with a higher prevalence of chronic pulmonary disease, diabetes mellitus, reduced bone density, peptic ulcer disease, and liver, cardiovascular, and renal disease.1,2 Health care providers should accurately interpret and communicate these comorbidities with concerned patients. Journals, books, and media often communicate these associations using relative risk. Unfortunately, doctors and patients overestimate risk when presented on a relative basis, which may lead to anxiety and inappropriate emphasis or attention on a comorbidity.

http://ift.tt/2rhcLc3