Eczema Linked to Increased Risk of Peripheral Vascular Disease, Study Finds

A new study from Yale School of Medicine reveals that patients with atopic dermatitis (AD), commonly known as eczema, have a significantly higher likelihood of developing peripheral vascular disease (PVD). Published in Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, the study analyzed extensive data from the National Institutes of Health’s All of Us Research Program, encompassing over 260,000 adults, to evaluate cardiovascular risks in patients with eczema.

Increased Cardiovascular Risks Observed in Eczema Patients

Researchers found that PVD affected 11% of individuals with eczema compared to just 6.2% of those without the condition. Even after accounting for various demographic factors, the data showed a 23% increased risk of PVD among eczema patients, highlighting a strong association between these two conditions. The study’s senior author, Dr. Jeffrey Cohen, explained that while the exact mechanisms linking AD to PVD are still unclear, chronic inflammation, reduced physical activity, and sleep disturbances associated with eczema could play a significant role.

Implications for Preventive Care in At-Risk Populations

This research underscores an essential consideration for healthcare providers treating eczema patients. Given the heightened cardiovascular risks identified, the study advocates for enhanced preventive measures, such as routine cardiovascular screening and proactive management of cardiovascular risk factors, in patients with AD. By understanding these additional health risks, clinicians may better tailor care strategies for patients with eczema, potentially improving their long-term cardiovascular health outcomes.