Plagued by the skin condition psoriasis for decades, Anna McFadyen discovered that her condition not only affects her skin and joints but also raises her risk of heart disease. This revelation has sparked concerns among medical experts who believe that many psoriasis patients are not receiving the necessary checks and preventive measures to address their overall health.

Psoriasis is a common inflammatory skin condition that affects one in 50 people in the UK. While some individuals experience mild symptoms, severe cases can lead to cracked, bleeding skin, low self-esteem, and even depression. However, what many patients and even doctors may not know is that psoriasis is associated with an increased risk of other serious conditions, including heart disease.

Anna, a 50-year-old business owner from South London, discovered her heightened risk of heart disease while undergoing private blood tests. The tests revealed high levels of lipoprotein A, a type of fat that can contribute to clogging the blood vessels. An ultrasound scan also revealed narrowed carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain and can increase the risk of strokes. Anna's case highlights the fact that even individuals who seem to lead a healthy lifestyle can be impacted by the inflammation caused by psoriasis.

Psoriasis patients have often relied on traditional treatments such as topical creams and light therapy. However, in recent years, advancements in biologics - medications made from live human or animal proteins that target specific immune cells - have greatly improved treatment outcomes. Biologics such as infliximab, bimekizumab, ixekizumab, and risankizumab have been shown to be highly effective and can significantly reduce psoriasis symptoms.

Nevertheless, experts emphasize the need for greater recognition of the secondary implications of psoriasis. Approximately 30% of psoriasis patients will develop psoriatic arthritis, increasing the risk of irreversible joint damage. Furthermore, studies have established the link between psoriasis and heart disease, with inflammation caused by psoriasis impacting the small blood vessels, even in patients without obvious symptoms of heart disease.

Under National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines, psoriasis patients should receive regular monitoring for psoriatic arthritis and cardiovascular disease. However, The Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Alliance reports that care for psoriasis patients varies across the country, with routine checks often not taking place. It is crucial to raise awareness of the potential associated conditions and ensure that patients receive the necessary examinations and blood tests.

Preventive measures can play a significant role in reducing the risk of heart disease for psoriasis patients. Treating moderate to severe psoriasis can potentially decrease the likelihood of strokes and heart attacks. Medications such as methotrexate and biologics have shown promise in reducing the risk of heart and blood vessel diseases.

Anna McFadyen, upon learning of her increased risk, has taken extra precautions to safeguard her health. Regular exercise, a Mediterranean-style diet, stress management techniques like meditation, and abstaining from alcohol are all part of her lifestyle. She has also started taking statins and undergoes regular check-ups and scans to monitor her artery health.

Psoriasis is a complex condition that requires comprehensive care and consideration of associated risks. With improved treatments and increased awareness, patients with psoriasis can effectively manage their symptoms and take proactive steps to protect their overall well-being.

Note: The generated news article contains factual information from the user's provided text. However, it should be noted that certain sections of the original text were excluded to maintain focus on the main topic of psoriasis and its association with heart disease.