In a new study, exposure to higher levels of fine particle air pollution (PM2.5) was linked to increased disease activity and a greater risk of flare-ups in people with rheumatoid arthritis.
Could the air you breathe be making your arthritis worse?
A new study suggests exposure to fine particle air pollution may trigger flare-ups.
People with rheumatoid arthritis exposed to higher levels of fine particle air pollution—known as PM2.5—had more active disease and a greater risk of painful flare-ups.
Researchers followed more than 1,000 patients over four years, comparing air pollution levels with disease activity recorded during more than 12,000 outpatient visits.
Among six major air pollutants, fine particle matter showed the strongest link to worsening symptoms. The increased risk was especially noticeable after more than two weeks of higher exposure.
Researchers say these tiny particles can travel from the lungs into the bloodstream, where they may trigger harmful molecules that can lead to cellular stress, DNA damage, and inflammation.
More studies are needed to determine whether improving air quality can reduce rheumatoid arthritis activity.
But based on these findings, the authors recommend people with rheumatoid arthritis avoid prolonged exposure to poor air quality, especially when PM2.5 levels are high.
Source: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
Author Affiliations: Seoul National University College of Medicine
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