Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) in Black Americans: Managing Your Risk of Complications

As it progresses, psoriatic arthritis (PsA) may lead to permanent joint damage and other health issues throughout the body. These complications may happen to anyone with PsA, but they may be more common in Black Americans with PsA.

“Black Americans may be less likely to be diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis [in a timely fashion],” says Maggie Cadet, MD, Rheumatologist in New York City. However, “when diagnosed, [PsA] may be more severe and they may have more psychological impact as well as [physical] disability.”

What other conditions are people with psoriatic arthritis at risk for?

People with PsA have an increased risk of:

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol

• Extra body weight

• Type 2 diabetes

• Depression

• Skin and eye conditions

Why are complications more common in Black Americans with psoriatic arthritis?

There are a few reasons that Black Americans with PsA may experience more severe symptoms and a greater risk of secondary medical conditions.

First, barriers to care may make it more challenging for Black Americans to receive an early diagnosis, access specialized care, and receive the appropriate treatments. 

Second, Black Americans are generally already at a higher risk for many of the secondary medical conditions associated with PsA. Historically, Black Americans have experienced high blood pressure at higher rates than the general population. 

One possible explanation may be attributable to social determinants of health. This refers to how the environments where you live, work, and play may impact your health. In the U.S., Black families are more likely to live in environments that make it harder to maintain good health.

What are tips for Black Americans with PsA to reduce their risk of complications or other associated conditions?

The following tips may help manage PsA and reduce the risk of complications, according to Dr. Cadet:

1. Build a good relationship with your primary care doctor and/or rheumatologist. They can help monitor your PsA progression and overall health.

2. Be honest with your doctor if your treatment is not working well. The ideal treatment should reduce your risk of joint damage and other PsA complications.

3. Stick to your prescribed treatment plan, which may help reduce the risk of complications. This may include additional treatment modalities like physical therapy.

4. Stay active: Regular physical activity may help with both joint and heart health. Talk to your doctor about a healthy exercise plan for you.

5. Eat a nutritious, balanced, anti-inflammatory, heart-healthy diet. A registered dietitian can help provide customized guidance.

6. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption. Smoking in particular has very harmful effects on heart and blood vessel health.

What are reasons to stay optimistic about psoriatic arthritis treatment?

Having a chronic illness is challenging enough, and the risk of complications and comorbidities may be scary. Keep in mind that a good treatment plan can usually help you live a more normal life.

“Just remember you’re not stuck with just one treatment option,” says Dr. Cadet.”There are many therapies out there that [may] help improve your quality of life. Don’t get discouraged. Be an advocate and talk to your physician.”

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Lauren Smith, MA

Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.

Reviewed by:

Alexandra Schwarz, MD

Alexandra Schwarz, MD, is a board-eligible sleep medicine physician and a board-certified family medicine physician. She is a member of both the AASM and the ABFM.

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