Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a common condition where the skin gets red and scaly; psoriasis can cause itching, discomfort, and sometimes pain. Psoriasis affects 2% to 4% of the world’s population. While it can begin at any age, psoriasis has 2 peaks of onset, the first at age 20 to 30 years and the second at age 50 to 60 years. It affects men and women equally but is more common in non-Hispanic whites. Some patients are more prone to developing psoriasis, especially if there is a family member with psoriasis. External factors such as infection, smoking, and certain medications can make psoriasis worse in some patients. Psoriasis is associated with a number of medical conditions. One-third of patients with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis, a progressive joint disease that can limit movement if untreated. Patients with severe psoriasis are also at higher risk than the general population for high blood pressure, diabetes, heart attacks, strokes, obesity, and depression.