New research published in Arthritis & Rheumatology indicates that chronic exposure to air pollutants may increase the risk of developing lupus, an autoimmune disease that affects multiple organs.
For the study, investigators analyzed data on 459,815 participants from the UK Biobank. A total of 399 lupus cases were identified during a median follow-up of 11.77 years. Air pollutant exposure was linked with a greater likelihood of developing lupus. Individuals with a high genetic risk and high air pollution exposure had the highest risk of developing lupus compared with those with low genetic risk and low air pollution exposure.
“Our study provides crucial insights into the air pollution contributing to autoimmune diseases. The findings can inform the development of stricter air quality regulations to mitigate exposure to harmful pollutants, thereby reducing the risk of lupus,” said co–corresponding author Yaohua Tian, PhD, of the Huazhong University of Science and Technology, in China.
URL upon publication: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/art.42929
Additional Information
NOTE: The information contained in this release is protected by copyright. Please include journal attribution in all coverage. For more information or to obtain a PDF of any study, please contact: Sara Henning-Stout, newsroom@wiley.com .
About the Journal
Arthritis & Rheumatology , an official journal of the American College of Rheumatology, is a peer-reviewed publication for scientists and clinicians interested in the natural history, pathophysiology, treatment, and outcome of the rheumatic diseases. We publish the highest quality basic and clinical research related to the rheumatic diseases, encompassing a wide range of areas of investigative activity. Clinical trial submissions undergo expedited review and are highly publicized.
About Wiley
Wiley is a knowledge company and a global leader in research, publishing, and knowledge solutions. Dedicated to the creation and application of knowledge, Wiley serves the world’s researchers, learners, innovators, and leaders, helping them achieve their goals and solve the world's most important challenges. For more than two centuries, Wiley has been delivering on its timeless mission to unlock human potential. Visit us at Wiley.com . Follow us on Facebook , X , LinkedIn and Instagram .
Arthritis & Rheumatology
Air pollution, genetic susceptibility and risk of incident Systemic lupus erythematosus: A prospective cohort study
10-Jul-2024