Evaluation of the Impact of Smoking on the Development and Severity of Psoriasis: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background: Psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin disorder affecting millions, has red, plaque-like lesions with silvery scales. Environmental factors like smoking may cause it, but there are many others. Smoking may affect psoriasis severity and treatment outcomes.

Method: This retrospective study examined whether smoking severe psoriasis at Government Medical College and Hospital, Bettiah. Data from 100 psoriasis patients was examined between February 2023 and April 2024. Medical records revealed patients' demographics, smoking habits, and clinical characteristics. Standardised assessments of psoriasis severity were taken using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) to assess quality of life and the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) to quantify lesion severity.

Results: Smokers (n=50) had significantly higher PASI scores (mean SD: 10.4 3.2) and more body surface area involvement (15.6% 4.5%) compared to non-smokers (n=50), who had PASI scores of 8.7 2.8 and body surface area involvement of 12.8% 3.6%. On DLQI, neither smokers nor non-smokers had significant differences in scores (mean ± SD: 10.5 ± 2.9 vs. 12.2 ± 3.6).

Conclusion: Smokers have severe psoriasis due to greater body surface area involvement and higher PASI scores. Smokers reported a similar quality of life despite higher clinical severity, possibly due to adaptation or mitigating circumstances. The findings emphasise the importance of smoking cessation efforts in treating psoriasis.