Psoriasis, which affects approximately 3% of the US population, is not only a chronic inflammatory skin condition but also a significant contributor to sleep disturbances. Conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and insomnia are notably more prevalent among patients with psoriasis and psoriasis and poor sleep are both associated with increased cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, and depression.

“Given the potential for compounded risk, screening for and treating sleep difficulties may be particularly important for this population,” wrote lead study authors Payton Smith, Joy Q. Jin, and colleagues. “However, patients with psoriasis note that insufficient time is dedicated to discussion of sleep related concerns during clinic visits, and limited knowledge exists regarding which aspects of sleep are most impacted.”

Leveraging data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, the researchers studied patients aged 20 years and older who reported their psoriasis status and sleep patterns. The authors used multivariable logistic regression models to explore the association between psoriasis and sleep disturbances, adjusting for variables such as age, gender, and health history. The results were published in Dermatology and Therapy.

The researchers found a significant association between psoriasis and trouble sleeping (aOR, 1.88; 95% CI, 1.44-2.45). However, there was no significant correlation between psoriasis and sleep quantity. Key predictors of trouble sleeping included older age, female gender, and a history of sleep disorders.

“To our knowledge, this study is the first largescale, population based study comparing sleep characteristics between individuals with and without psoriasis,” Smith, Jin, and colleagues noted.

The authors wrote their results underscore the importance of clinical screening that prioritizes sleep quality over quantity in patients with psoriasis. Identifying and managing sleep-related comorbidities in this population can potentially alleviate some of the broader health risks they face.

“Incorporating comprehensive sleep assessments into routine care could greatly enhance treatment outcomes and improve the overall health and well being of individuals suffering from this chronic condition,” the researchers concluded. “Ultimately, increased identification and treatment of sleep disturbance, together with standard psoriasis therapies, could lead to meaningful improvements.”