The Dermatological Consequences of Obesity

The 2013 document reviewed the link between obesity and various skin conditions, noting that obesity predisposes individuals to dermatological issues such as infections, inflammatory conditions like psoriasis, and an increased risk of skin cancer, particularly melanoma. It was found that higher BMI and body surface area at age 20 were significantly associated with increased melanoma rates in the USA, but not with basal cell carcinoma, except for a lower incidence of carcinomas on the trunk in obese individuals. Factors contributing to the higher melanoma risk in obese individuals may include more skin cells at risk, genetic factors like POMC gene mutations, high leptin levels, and compromised immunity. The document underscores the need for weight management in treating obesity-related skin conditions and anticipates a rise in these conditions within dermatological practice.