Autoimmune diseases affect millions of people worldwide. These conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the body, causing inflammation and damage to tissues and organs.

While autoimmune diseases can affect anyone, some are more prevalent in women. According to a study conducted by the American Autoimmune Related Diseases Association (AARDA), 78% of autoimmune disease patients are women. Here are ten autoimmune diseases that are more common in women:.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory condition that primarily affects the joints. Women are two to three times more likely to develop RA than men.

The exact reasons for this sex difference aren’t known, but researchers believe that hormones, genetics, and environmental factors may play a role.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), also known as lupus, is an autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body. Women are 9 times more likely to have lupus than men.

The reasons for this difference aren’t fully understood, but experts suggest that female hormones, genetics, and environmental triggers like infections or sun exposure may contribute.

Sjogren’s Syndrome

Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects the salivary and tear glands. Women are nine times more likely to have Sjogren’s syndrome than men. The reasons for this difference are not yet known.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. Women are twice as likely to develop MS as men.

Researchers believe that genetics, immune function, vitamin D levels, and other environmental factors may influence the risk of developing MS.

Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease that attacks the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism. Women are seven times more likely to have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis than men.

The reason for this difference is not known, but it may be due to hormonal, genetic, or environmental factors.

Graves’ Disease

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that causes hyperthyroidism, meaning that the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Women are eight times more likely to have Graves’ disease than men.

Again, the reasons for this difference are not fully understood, but experts suggest that genetics and environmental factors may play a role.

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks the small intestine when gluten is ingested. Women are twice as likely to have celiac disease as men.

The reasons for this difference aren’t fully understood, but some experts suggest that hormonal differences may contribute.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the skin, causing red, scaly patches. Women are more likely than men to develop psoriasis.

The reasons for this difference are not known, but hormonal, genetic, and environmental factors may play a role.

Autoimmune Hepatitis

Autoimmune hepatitis is an autoimmune disease that affects the liver. Women are more likely to develop autoimmune hepatitis than men, though the difference in prevalence is not as pronounced as with some of the other autoimmune diseases on this list.

Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC)

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune disease that affects the liver’s bile ducts. Women are more likely to have PBC than men.

The reason for this difference is not known, but hormonal, genetic, and environmental factors may contribute.

: Conclusion

Autoimmune diseases affect millions of people worldwide, and women are more likely than men to develop many of them.

While the reasons for these sex differences are not yet fully understood, research is ongoing to better understand the factors that contribute to the development of these conditions. If you are experiencing symptoms of an autoimmune disease, it’s important to see a healthcare provider to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.