PM2.5 pollution associated with increased disease, flare risk in rheumatoid arthritis: Study

Exposure to PM2.5 pollution is associated with an increased disease activity and flare risk in rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic autoimmune disease marked by joint inflammation and joint damage, according to a new study.

Findings published in the journal Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases underscore the importance for healthcare providers and policymakers to recognise the impact air pollution can have on how one manages the condition.

Factors such as genetics, immune system changes and environmental exposures can contribute to whether one develops rheumatoid arthritis, with many of the environmental factors being modifiable.

Researchers, including those from the Seoul National University College of Medicine, said smoking is one of the well-established risk factors, while climatic factors, such as air temperature and humidity, and certain pollutants, including silica, have also been implicated in developing the autoimmune condition.