Interventions on Modifiable Risk Factors for the Development of Psoriatic Arthritis

Interventions on Modifiable Risk Factors for the Development of Psoriatic Arthritis:

Abstract

Purpose of the review

Prevention of the development of a disease is one of the most effective and desirable outcomes in medicine. Several modifiable risk factors for the development of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) have been studied. The following review will focus on modifiable risk factors for PsA development and the evidence on interventions that may have the potential to prevent PsA.

Recent findings

The domains of interest that have been associated with the development of PsA include presence of enthesitis, inadequate treatment of psoriasis, elevated BMI, identifying candidate biomarkers, and poor lifestyle habits. There is some evidence that effectively treating enthesitis might prevent the development of PsA. The evidence on adequately treating skin psoriasis for PsA prevention is scarce, but emerging studies are expected. Evidence that weight loss is beneficial for prevention of psoriasis and PsA development is accumulating, and difficult to dispute. The evidence related to smoking and alcohol is controversial; however, there is substantial evidence building for PsO.

Summary

Although the current evidence is not robust on PsA prevention, the understanding of potential modifiable risk factors for PsA is critical to examine. Weight reduction and effective treatment of both PsO and targeting subclinical enthesitis may be the most promising interventions.