Excess Belly Fat Linked to Increased Risk of Psoriasis, Study Finds

A recent study conducted by researchers at King’s College London has highlighted a concerning connection between excess abdominal fat and the development of psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition. The findings, published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology on June 22, 2025, suggest that not only does overall weight matter, but the specific location of body fat—particularly around the waist—plays a significant role in increasing the risk of psoriasis.

The comprehensive study analyzed health data from over 330,000 participants across the United Kingdom. The researchers focused on various body fat measurements, including waist-to-hip ratio, abdominal fat ratio, and waist size, to assess their correlation with psoriasis. Dr. Ravi Ramessur, the lead researcher from St John's Institute of Dermatology at King’s College London, stated, “Our research shows that where fat is stored in the body matters when it comes to psoriasis risk. Central fat, especially around the waist, plays a key role.” This insight challenges the conventional reliance on Body Mass Index (BMI) as a primary indicator of health risks related to obesity.

Psoriasis is characterized by red, scaly patches on the skin, often affecting areas such as the scalp, elbows, and knees. The condition can severely impact an individual's quality of life. Previous studies have indicated that individuals with psoriasis tend to have higher levels of body fat; however, the specific influence of fat distribution was not as thoroughly understood until now.

Dr. Catherine H. Smith, a senior author of the study, emphasized the significance of these findings as obesity rates continue to rise globally. She noted, “As obesity rates continue to rise, it’s important to understand how different fat patterns affect diseases like psoriasis. Our study shows that central body fat can increase the risk, even if someone is not genetically prone to the condition.”

The study's methodology involved both traditional measurement techniques and advanced imaging methods to evaluate fat distribution. The results indicated that individuals with higher amounts of central fat were more likely to develop psoriasis, irrespective of their genetic predisposition.

Despite the compelling nature of the findings, the study's authors acknowledge certain limitations. Notably, all participants were of White British ancestry, which raises questions about the applicability of the results to diverse ethnic backgrounds. To address this gap, the researchers advocate for further studies involving a more varied demographic and those with dermatologist-confirmed diagnoses.

Dr. Ramessur remarked on the unexpected strength of the correlation, particularly among women, suggesting that there may be additional biological factors at play that are not yet fully understood. In light of this research, the authors recommend a shift in health assessments towards focusing on waist size rather than solely weight. They advocate for lifestyle measures that include regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy waist circumference as pivotal steps in preventing or managing psoriasis.

The implications of this study extend beyond individual health, as they contribute to a broader understanding of obesity-related health risks. With rising obesity rates worldwide, health professionals may need to reconsider traditional metrics and adopt more nuanced approaches to assess and mitigate risks associated with conditions like psoriasis. As the healthcare community continues to explore the complexities of fat distribution and its impact on health, these findings could pave the way for more personalized treatment and prevention strategies for individuals at risk of psoriasis and other related conditions.