"Background:Psoriatic arthritis is a multi-system auto-immune disease that affects approximately 0.15% of European populations. It can result in lost productivity and a decreased quality of life. The skin disease psoriasis is associated with cardiovascular disease. This is also true for rheumatoid arthritis. Initial data suggest an association between psoriatic arthritis and heart disease, but no population based studies exist. We propose a multi-disciplinary study combining advanced information technology and a collaboration between experts in cardiology and rheumatology. The proposed study is population based and addresses an important clinical question.Objective:To confirm and quantify the association between psoriatic arthritis and cardiovascular disease in the general population.Methods:Detailed population level data are available from the Icelandic Heart Association’s registry of every case of myocardial infarction occurring in the Icelandic population since 1981. We have previously compiled a list of all known cases of psoriatic arthritis in Iceland and propose linking this list to the heart disease registry. We will use statistical techniques including longitudinal data analysis to assess the risk of developing heart disease and cancer. To address confounding we will use two complimentary methods to compare the cardiovascular risk factor profiles of psoriatic arthritis patients to the general population.Benefits:The proposed project will improve the understanding of health risks associated with psoriatic arthritis. These risks can be taken into account when caring for these patients. Specifically, lifestyle modification and targeted screening can improve the survival and quality of life of cardiovascular patients.In addition to the scientific goals, this project will facilitate the reintegration of the applicant into the European and Icelandic research community, while bringing new research techniques and knowledge to the host institution."