CHILDHOOD obesity is associated with an increased risk of developing paediatric immune-mediated skin diseases, such as atopic dermatitis (AD), according to recent research. The relationship between childhood obesity and the development of immune-mediated skin diseases, including alopecia areata, AD, and psoriasis, has been a subject of growing interest. As the prevalence of paediatric obesity rises globally, understanding its potential impact on immune health becomes increasingly important. This study aimed to investigate whether changes in body mass index (BMI) are linked to the onset of these skin conditions in children.
A longitudinal cohort study was conducted involving 2,161,900 Korean children, whose health data were tracked from 2009 to 2020. The study examined the associations between BMI, changes in BMI, and the development of three key immune-mediated skin diseases: alopecia areata, AD, and psoriasis. The analysis revealed that children classified as obese were at a higher risk of developing these skin diseases compared to their normal-weight peers, with a statistically significant trend (p< .01). Specifically, an increase in BMI was associated with a heightened risk of developing AD, while a decrease in BMI was correlated with a reduced risk of the condition. Children who transitioned from a normal weight to overweight status had a significantly higher risk of AD (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.15), whereas those who moved from overweight to normal weight status had a lower risk (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.87) compared to those who remained overweight.
This study highlights the significant impact of childhood obesity on the development of immune-mediated skin diseases, particularly AD. The findings emphasise the need for a plan of action to prevent childhood obesity to reduce the risk of these conditions. In clinical practice, early intervention strategies should focus on promoting healthy eating habits, increasing physical activity, and educating families about the importance of maintaining a healthy weight. Future research should explore the underlying mechanisms linking obesity to immune dysregulation and investigate the effectiveness of targeted weight management programs in reducing the risk of paediatric immune-mediated skin diseases.
Katrina Thornber, EMJ
Reference
Kim SR et al. Childhood obesity, weight change, and pediatric immune-mediated skin diseases. J Invest Dermatol.2024;DOI:10.1016/j.jid.2024.01.037.
