The true cause of Rheumatoid Arthritis remains unknown, but research has been able to identify several aspects of the disease. Because there is not yet a cure, your best defense against Rheumatoid Arthritis is to know what may contribute to its development and then do what you can to prevent it. There are several genetic, environmental, and other factors that may increase your risk of developing Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Risk Factor: Genetics
Susceptibility to Rheumatoid Arthritis has been linked to specific genes that play a role in the immune system, so those with a family history of rheumatoid arthritis may be more likely to develop it themselves. The risk of progressively worsening Rheumatoid arthritis may be influenced by which version of the gene you have. However, genetic makeup is not the strongest risk factor, because there are many RA patients who do not have this gene, and likewise there are many people who have this gene but who do not have Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Risk Factor: The Environment
Research suggests that for those who have the genes that make them susceptible to Rheumatoid Arthritis, something in the environment must trigger its onset. This environmental agent is likely infection by a virus or bacterium. This is not to suggest that RA is transmitted from person to person; Rheumatoid Arthritis is not something that can be “caught.” Rather, an infection could lead to the onset of rheumatoid arthritis if you are genetically predisposed to it.
Risk Factor: You are Female
Rheumatoid Arthritis is much more frequently found in women. It is estimated that there are two to four times as many women with Rheumatoid Arthritis as men. Women also stand a higher risk of developing the more severe form of the condition.
Risk Factor: Obesity
Scientists believe that there is a hormonal factor that increases the risk of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Obesity involves hormonal change, and although the risk is not fully understood, research shows that there may be a connection between obesity and Rheumatoid Arthritis. One study suggests that women with a higher body mass index may have an increased risk of RA (2).
Obesity can also worsen symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis; excess weight puts more pressure on the joints and may exacerbate the breakdown of joint tissue.
Risk Factor: Age
Though Rheumatoid Arthritis is often associated with the elderly, people of any age can develop this disease. Its onset is common in people between the ages of 20 and 45. However, children can develop Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Possible Risks
Research is ongoing, but it may be helpful for you to know a few other factors that may influence your risks:
- Your job. A study conducted in California found that rheumatoid arthritis was more likely to lead to disability in people who work in assembly or installation (2).
- Your bad habit. Smoking is considered to be linked to rheumatoid arthritis. A study conducted in Sweden found that people who smoke are more likely to develop RA (2).
- Injury. No link has been found between previous injuries and the immune system changes associated with RA. However, serious knee injuries can deteriorate cartilage and add to joint damage during arthritis.
- Your race. While people of any race or ethnicity can develop RA, some research has shown that the susceptible immune system gene linked to RA occurs more frequently in Caucasians than African-Americans.
Now that you know the risks, you know there are only a few that you are able to control. If you develop rheumatoid arthritis, early diagnosis and treatment is the key to managing it and enjoying a high quality of life. Consider a safe and natural treatment which has no side effects.
(1) http://www.recoverymedicine.com/rheumatoid_arthritis_wellness_tips.htm
(2) http://www.realage.com/health_guides/RArthritis/Lm.aspx?topic=12
