Approved research

Examining the characteristics of patients with psoriasis and its association with major comorbid conditions: cross-sectional study

Lay summary

Psoriasis is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease associated with an increased risk of premature mortality probably due to a higher burden of physical and mental health conditions (co-morbidities). The World Health Organisation (WHO) recently highlighted the importance of better understanding the burden and nature of co-morbidities in patients with psoriasis. To achieve this goal, large population-based studies are required to provide detailed information on patients' diagnoses and lifestyle characteristics. We aim to examine the comorbidities of psoriasis patients compared against those without a diagnosis of psoriasis using the UK Biobank and linked hospital episode statistics data. Understanding psoriasis and its comorbidities will increase awareness of healthcare professionals to identify, better manage and even prevent such comorbidities. This meets UK Biobank's stated purpose 'to improve the diagnosis and treatment of serious illness'. Patients with psoriasis and without psoriasis will be compared regarding socio-demographic, lifestyle and other disease-related risk factors. Statistical tests will be used to examine whether patients with psoriasis are more likely to report comorbidities and whether it varies by the severity of psoriasis. Full cohort