A STRONG link between childhood obesity and the development of immune-mediated skin diseases (IMSDs), such as alopecia areata, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis, has been highlighted in new research.
Researchers found that obese children were significantly more likely to develop these common skin conditions compared to their normal-weight peers. Among the IMSDs studied, atopic dermatitis showed the most pronounced association with weight changes: children who gained weight (from normal to overweight) had a higher risk of developing the condition, while those who lost weight (from overweight to normal) had a reduced risk. The study analyzed data from 2.16 million Korean children from 2009 to 2020, making it one of the largest studies of its kind.
Co-lead investigator Seong Rae Kim from Seoul National University College of Medicine, South Korea, noted, “Many previous studies have examined the link between childhood obesity and IMSDs, but our long-term approach with a large sample size allows for a better understanding of how body weight changes over time affect the development of these diseases.”
The study underscores the importance of weight management in children, not only for overall health but also to reduce the risk of chronic skin conditions that impact quality of life. Despite advancements in biologic treatments, there are still limited options for managing these conditions in children, making prevention through weight maintenance and healthy lifestyle choices crucial.
Hyunsun Park, another co-lead investigator, emphasized the role of diet and lifestyle in influencing both gut health and skin conditions, suggesting a complex interplay between obesity and immune function. “Our findings suggest that preventing excessive weight gain and encouraging purposeful weight loss in children, especially before school age, can reduce the risk of developing atopic dermatitis and other IMSDs,” said Park. This research supports the need for targeted interventions to promote healthy weight and potentially prevent debilitating skin diseases in children.
Reference: Kim SR et al. Childhood obesity, weight change, and pediatric immune-mediated skin diseases. JID Innov. 2024;144(9):1984.e10.
Anaya Malik | AMJ
