Environmental influences on risk for RA | Arthritis Information

 

Liao KP et al. - Environmental exposures that modify risk for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) such as smoking and alcohol intake, birthweight, breastfeeding, socioeconomic status and region of birth have been demonstrated. Anti-citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA) status is associated with specific environmental factors and is therefore important to incorporate into present and future studies.

Methods

• Aim was to examine:
  • new environmental factors and
  • provide updates on known risk factors for RA from 2006-2008

Results

• High consumption of red meat does not increase risk of RA, whereas alcohol intake may be protective
• The role of vitamin D and oral contraceptives as modifiers of disease risk remains equivocal
• Other factors associated with increased risk of RA include:
  • higher birthweight
  • living in the northeastern United States compared with other regions of the country
  • lower socioeconomic status
• Duration of breastfeeding is inversely associated with RA risk
• Positive ACPA RA has a specific association with environmental risk factors such as smoking

http://journals.lww.com/co-rheumatology/Abstract/2009/05000/Environmental_influences_on_risk_for_rheumatoid.14.aspx

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