Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic, recurrent, noncontagious disorder of the skin, perhaps caused in part by neuropsychic traumas and metabolic and endocrine disorders. It is an inflammatory disorder related to the immune system. Symptoms consist of red, scaly areas most commonly found on the scalp, elbows and knees. In moderate and severe cases, the inflammation and irritation can cover most of the body surface. Psoriasis is both uncomfortable and unsightly.

Studies of both men and women with this unsightly and discomforting skin condition have shown that smokers are about two or three times more likely to develop it than nonsmokers. The risk increases with the numbers of cigarettes smoked.