EVIDENCE suggests weight-loss interventions can improve the severity of psoriasis and patient quality of life, a 2026 systematic review and meta-analysis has found.
Researchers called for them to be considered part of routine treatment.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis affects at least 60 million people worldwide, 80% of which also live with overweight or obesity.
Excess weight is also associated with more severe psoriasis.
Impact of Weight-Loss Interventions
Researchers analysed 1,145 participants from a total of 13 randomised controlled trials.
Of 11 dietary interventions, four included physical activity.
Weight-loss interventions produced a greater reduction in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores compared with controls.
Weight loss also had a significant effect on the likelihood of patients achieving 75% reduction in PASI baseline.
Further, across seven comparisons, weight-loss interventions were linked to a significant improvement in Dermatology Life Quality Index scores, compared with controls.
Patient Experience
The patient advisory group reported that the findings would motivate them to consider weight loss as an adjunct treatment for psoriasis.
Many reported that the results of the study represented their lived experience of psoriasis fluctuating with body weight.
The group valued combined improvements in both clinical psoriasis outcomes and overall quality of life, which it felt gave motivation and encouragement in weight-loss programmes.
Further, patients expressed frustration that, in medical consultations related to psoriasis, discussion on diet and weight were infrequent.
Clinical Implications
The research team encouraged clinicians to consider using the relevant findings to counsel patients and refer them for weight-loss support when appropriate.
Further research, it reported, should “bridge the gap” between evidence and awareness of patients with psoriasis, whilst simultaneously addressing clinician hesitancy.
Understanding how to implement the findings in clinical settings is essential, researchers concluded.
Reference
Morrow S et al. Impact of weight-loss interventions on psoriasis severity: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2026;40(6):980–993.
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