Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects your joints and can cause severe pain and inflammation. It can also have an impact on other parts of the body such as the skin, eyes, lungs, and heart.

The exact cause of the disease is unknown, but research suggests that genetic and environmental factors play a role. RA can affect anyone at any age, but there are some factors that put you at a higher risk for developing the disease. Let’s take a look at some of these factors so that you can determine if you are at risk for Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Age and Gender

RA is most commonly diagnosed in people between the ages of 40 and 60. Women are also more likely to develop the disease than men. According to the Arthritis Foundation, about 75% of people with RA are women. However, men tend to have more severe symptoms.

Family History

If you have a family member with RA, your risk of developing the disease is higher. Studies have shown that people with a first-degree relative with RA are two to three times more likely to develop the disease.

This suggests that genetics play a role in the development of RA.

Smoking

Smoking is a significant risk factor for RA. Research has shown that smoking can increase the risk of developing the disease by up to 1.5 times.

It is believed that smoking can trigger an immune response that can lead to the development of RA in susceptible individuals. Therefore, if you smoke, you should quit to reduce your risk of developing RA.

Obesity

Obesity is another common risk factor for RA. Studies have shown that people who are overweight or obese are at a higher risk of developing the disease. This is because excess weight can put stress on joints, leading to inflammation and damage.

Losing weight may help reduce the risk of RA, especially in women.

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors such as infections or exposure to certain chemicals may play a role in the development of RA. Some research suggests that exposure to silica, a mineral found in rocks and soil, may increase the risk of developing RA.

Infections such as the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which causes mononucleosis, have also been linked to an increased risk of developing RA.

Autoimmune Diseases

If you have an autoimmune disease, your risk of developing RA is higher. Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system attacks healthy tissue in the body. Examples of autoimmune diseases include lupus, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 diabetes.

If you have one of these diseases, you should be aware of the signs and symptoms of RA and speak to your doctor if you experience any joint pain or stiffness.

Conclusion

There are several risk factors for the development of rheumatoid arthritis. These include age, gender, family history, smoking, obesity, environmental factors, and having an autoimmune disease.

If you are at risk of developing RA, it is essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow the progression of the disease and improve your quality of life.