Atopic dermatitis (AD), also known as eczema, is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease resulting in a significant decrease in quality of life for patients. Patients with AD are often found to be at higher risk for developing cardiometabolic issues alongside AD, such as hypertension, which can make management of AD symptoms even more difficult. Although we know that adults with more severe AD have an increased risk of cardiometabolic outcomes, we do not currently understand the underlying reasons for this association.
Our project aims to examine how lifestyle choices, including factors like diet and smoking, affect the risk of developing AD and its related cardiometabolic issues. We will examine how the severity of AD and the amount of salt in our diet each contribute to the risk of developing cardiometabolic diseases, whether certain lifestyle choices can lead to AD or vice versa, and whether AD can lead to cardiometabolic diseases or vice versa.
To accomplish this, we will use data sourced from the health records of individuals over time, examining who develops AD and cardiometabolic diseases, and determining the statistical impact of lifestyle and salt intake on disease. We will also use a statistical model known as Mendelian Randomization to understand the causality behind the relationships mentioned above.
Through understanding these relationships better, we can provide more personalized recommendations to individuals with AD on how to prevent the development of cardiometabolic issues. This could include dietary changes, among other potential lifestyle choices, that could serve as low risk, yet highly effective prevention strategies for further development of disease.