Relation between Psoriatic Arthritis and Obesity

Background: Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a persistent inflammatory disorder commonly linked to psoriasis and frequently coexists with conditions such as obesity. Obesity may intensify PsA through mechanisms like chronic systemic inflammation, biomechanical joint stress, and immune system dysregulation. Although the link between obesity and PsA is recognized, few studies have explored this relationship from a patient-centred standpoint. Objective: This study aimed to use the Psoriatic Arthritis Impact of illness (PSAID-12) questionnaire and to examine the relationship between PsA and obesity. Also, to assess the impact of age, gender, and body mass index (BMI) on the illness impact as reported by patients. Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study enrolled 143 PsA patients from the Outpatient Clinics in Cairo. BMI was recorded, and all participants completed the PSAID-12 questionnaire, which evaluates physical, emotional, and social aspects of disease burden. Statistical analyses included independent samples t-tests and Pearson correlation coefficients to assess gender differences and the relationships between PSAID-12 domains, age, and BMI. Results: Among the 143 participants, 69.9% were females (n = 100) and 30.1% male (n = 43), with a mean age of 38.7 years and an average BMI of 23.6 kg/m². Female participants reported significantly higher scores in several PSAID-12 domains, including pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, discomfort, anxiety, depression, and embarrassment. Male participants demonstrated better scores in coping and engagement in daily activities. Age was positively correlated with coping, but inversely related to social participation and physical functioning. BMI showed weak but significant negative correlations with coping and social engagement, and positive associations with depression and embarrassment. Overall disease burden, reflected by the total PSAID-12 score, was higher in females and inversely correlated with BMI. Conclusion: This study indicated that obesity contributes to a greater emotional and physical burden in PsA, and that age and gender meaningfully shape how patients perceive their symptoms. Incorporating weight management and psychosocial interventions into PsA treatment strategies may enhance patient outcomes.