Which factor is a known risk factor for hidradenitis suppurativa?

Which factor is a known risk factor for hidradenitis suppurativa?

• A. Smoking
• B. Low body mass index
• C. Regular exercise
• D. Adequate sleep

Answer: (A)

Smoking stands out as a well-established risk factor for hidradenitis suppurativa. It promotes follicular occlusion and abnormal keratinization, which helps initiate the inflammatory cascade under the skin in the folds where HS often appears. Smoking also drives systemic inflammation and immune changes that can worsen lesions and disease activity. Importantly, it’s a modifiable factor, so quitting can improve outcomes. The other options don’t increase risk. A lower BMI isn’t the known risk driver—obesity is the associated factor, while a lower BMI isn’t linked to higher HS risk. Regular exercise and adequate sleep are healthful and can help modulate inflammation and overall well-being, rather than increasing HS risk.

Smoking stands out as a well-established risk factor for hidradenitis suppurativa. It promotes follicular occlusion and abnormal keratinization, which helps initiate the inflammatory cascade under the skin in the folds where HS often appears. Smoking also drives systemic inflammation and immune changes that can worsen lesions and disease activity. Importantly, it’s a modifiable factor, so quitting can improve outcomes.

The other options don’t increase risk. A lower BMI isn’t the known risk driver—obesity is the associated factor, while a lower BMI isn’t linked to higher HS risk. Regular exercise and adequate sleep are healthful and can help modulate inflammation and overall well-being, rather than increasing HS risk.