Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects the joints and other tissues in the body. It is characterized by joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, as well as fatigue and systemic inflammation.

While the exact causes of RA are not fully understood, researchers have identified a number of risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing the disease, including age, sex, genetics, and environmental factors.

In addition to these known risk factors, research has also suggested that certain illnesses may make a person more susceptible to developing RA.

In this article, we’ll explore two such illnesses and how they may increase the risk of developing this chronic condition.

1. Diabetes

Diabetes is a group of metabolic diseases characterized by high blood sugar levels.

Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the blood vessels and nerves in the body, leading to a range of complications such as heart disease, kidney failure, and vision loss. Diabetes has also been linked to an increased risk of developing many other chronic diseases, including RA.

Researchers have found that individuals with type 1 diabetes have a significantly increased risk of developing RA compared to those without diabetes.

One study published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine found that individuals with type 1 diabetes were more than twice as likely to develop RA as those without the disease.

While the link between type 2 diabetes and RA is less clear, several studies have suggested that the two conditions may be connected.

One study published in the Journal of Rheumatology found that individuals with type 2 diabetes had a significantly increased risk of developing RA compared to those without the disease. Another study published in the journal Arthritis & Rhitis tended to suggest that type 2 diabetes may be a risk factor for the development of rheumatoid arthritis.

There are several potential mechanisms by which diabetes may increase the risk of developing RA.

For example, both diabetes and RA are associated with chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, which can cause damage to the joints and other tissues in the body. In addition, diabetes may also lead to vascular damage and impaired circulation, which can reduce the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the joints, further promoting inflammation and joint damage.

2. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease characterized by persistent airflow obstruction and difficulty breathing. Common causes of COPD include smoking, air pollution, and other environmental factors.

COPD is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and it has been linked to an increased risk of many other chronic diseases including RA.

Studies have found that individuals with COPD have an increased risk of developing RA compared to those without the disease.

One study published in the journal Rheumatology found that individuals with COPD were more than twice as likely to develop RA as those without the disease.

There are several potential mechanisms by which COPD may increase the risk of developing RA. For example, both COPD and RA are associated with chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, which can cause damage to the joints and other tissues in the body.

In addition, COPD may also lead to low oxygen levels, which can impair the immune system and increase the risk of infection and autoimmune diseases like RA.

Conclusion

While the exact causes of rheumatoid arthritis are not well understood, research has identified a number of risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing the disease.

In addition to age, sex, genetics, and environmental factors, certain illnesses such as diabetes and COPD may also increase the risk of developing RA. By understanding these risk factors, healthcare professionals can better identify individuals who may be at risk for developing RA and provide the appropriate preventive and treatment strategies.