New Insights into Autoimmune Diseases

Did you know? Autoimmune diseases now impact Approximately 10% of the global population, with 13% of women and 7% of men affected. These eye-opening statistics emerge from a recent study conducted by experts from Oxford University, a significant contribution to our understanding of autoimmune disorders.

The researchers analysed electronic health records from a massive dataset encompassing 22 million individuals in the UK, shedding light on 19 of the most common autoimmune diseases. This study offers valuable insights into the complex landscape of autoimmune disorders.

Some key takeaways from this research:

1. Autoimmune disorders collectively affect approximately 10% of the population, a higher prevalence than previously estimated.

2. The study uncovered socio-economic, seasonal, and regional disparities among autoimmune diseases, hinting at potential modifiable risk factors.

3. It was observed that certain autoimmune diseases tend to co-occur, suggesting common risk factors, such as genetic predisposition or environmental triggers. 1, 2

Thanks to the collective of experts from institutions like KU Leuven, University College London, and the University of Oxford for this extensive and enlightening research effort. Their collaboration has enabled us to grasp the intricate web of autoimmune diseases better.

One of these conditions is # rheumatoid arthritis, a condition close to my heart. Did you know that in 2019, 18 million people worldwide were living with rheumatoid arthritis, with the majority being women over 55? 3

This systemic autoimmune disease affects the lining of your joints, causing a painful swelling that can eventually result in bone erosion and joint deformity. Unless the inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis is controlled, damage can also occur in other parts of the body, including the skin, eyes, Lungs, Heart, Kidneys, Nerve tissue, Blood vessels, and Bone marrow.

As we strive to understand and address the rising prevalence of autoimmune diseases, it is crucial that further research is prioritised and resources are allocated to enhance the diagnostic, therapeutic, and preventive approaches.

Sources:

1: “Incidence, prevalence, and co-occurrence of autoimmune disorders over time and by age, sex, and socioeconomic status: a population-based cohort study of 22 million individuals in the UK” by Nathalie Conrad et al. The Lancet

2: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.coi.2022.102266

3: Rheumatoid arthritis - World Health Organization (WHO)

#AutoimmuneDiseases #HealthResearch #RheumatoidArthritisAwareness #Autoimmunity #OxfordUniversity #PublicHealth #MedicalResearch #GlobalHealth #LinkedInPost