Children with psoriasis are twice as likely to have bigger waists than those without the painful skin condition, says a study.
And increased abdominal fat is linked to a greater likelihood of developing cardiovascular conditions, as well as arthritis and obesity, according to Associate Professor Saxon Smith.
The dermatologist, from Sydney's Royal North Shore Hospital, and colleagues are presenting a recent study - yet to be published - at the annual conference of The Australasian College of Dermatologists in Perth.
"Our study has revealed that children with psoriasis were twice as likely to have increased waist/height measurements as children without psoriasis," he said in a statement.
The inflammatory, itchy condition is estimated to affect more than 600,000 Australians at some stage and often is dismissed as a minor skin complaint.
However, it is becoming "increasingly apparent that it is a complex condition linked to increased likelihoods of other health conditions such as cardiovascular conditions", as well as other problems such as a higher risk of developing arthritis, obesity and even depression, he said.
The study indicated that psoriasis could lay the foundation for cardiovascular complications in adulthood, in which the blood vessels stiffen and become thicker, Prof Smith said.
He urged patients to speak to professionals about treatment options, including injections, for psoriasis.
