‘I don't know which is the chicken and which is the egg’: A qualitative study of weight loss‐related beliefs and behaviours among adults with psoriasis and comorbid obesity

Abstract

Objectives: Obesity is a common (30%-40%) comorbidity of psoriasis. Weight loss is shown to improve the severity of psoriasis; however, little is known about the factors that may influence successful weight loss in the context of obesity and psoriasis. The current qualitative study aimed to explore the obesity-associated beliefs, perceptions, and behaviours related to weight loss in psoriasis. Preferences for a weight loss intervention were also explored. Design: Qualitative in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 adults (62.5% male) with moderate-to-severe psoriasis and obesity (mean body mass index = 35.2 kg/m 2 , SD = 4.1), recruited through a patient organization website in the UK. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Most participants viewed psoriasis as unrelated to obesity. A well-controlled psoriasis and improvements in psoriasis symptoms were considered as major motivators for engaging in a weight loss program by individuals who viewed psoriasis and obesity as related conditions. Comfort eating was perceived as an escape strategy from the psoriasis-induced negative emotions. Participants shared their dissatisfaction with current weight loss recommendations which were too generic. They suggested that a desirable weight loss program would require both emotional and behavioural support, with an emphasis on psoriasis' burden. Conclusion:The findings accentuate the importance of (1) clinicians discussing the link between obesity and psoriasis