The association between BMI and PsO risk: An NHANES database analysis

Results from a cross-sectional analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database investigating the association between body mass index (BMI) and psoriasis (PsO) risk in 19,892 adults aged ≥20 years were published in Medicine by Lv et al. The aim of this study was to evaluate the nonlinear relationship between BMI and PsO and to explore BMI risk thresholds. 

Key data: A significant, nonlinear positive association between BMI and PsO was confirmed (p < 0.001). The linear model also demonstrated a significant association, with an odds ratio [OR] per 1-unit BMI increase of 1.03 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02–1.04; p < 0.0001). Piecewise regression identified a threshold BMI of 26.74 kg/m²: below this, each 1-unit BMI increase elevated PsO risk by 11% (OR, 1.11; 95% CI, 1.05–1.18; p = 0.0003); above it, risk was reduced to 2% (OR, 1.02; 95% CI, 1.00–1.03; p = 0.0414). In the fully adjusted model, patients with overweight and obesity had 50% (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.2–1.9) and 70% (OR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.4–2.2) higher odds of PsO, respectively, vs patients with normal weight. The association between BMI and PsO was more pronounced in patients aged >60 years, of Mexican descent, and in those who smoke.  

Key learning: A significant, nonlinear association between BMI and PsO risk was identified, including a clinically relevant BMI threshold of 26.74 kg/m², highlighting targeted weight management as a potential preventive strategy for PsO.