Long-Term Smoking Linked to Arthritis

Unless you've just moved here from another planet, you're well
aware of the profound dangers associated with consistent tobacco
use. People who smoke run the risk of developing chronic conditions
such as lung cancer, emphysema and heart disease, not to mention
rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

OK, let's mention RA afterall. Rheumatoid arthritis, the most
common form of arthritis in the United States, is a disabling
disease characterized by joint swelling, pain and stiffness. And
according to a recent study, long-term cigarette smoking may
contribute to the development of RA.

As part of the Women's' Health Cohort Study, 377,481 female health
care professionals completed questionnaires that asked about health
habits, cigarette smoking history, and medical history (including
a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis). Results showed that women who
smoked for many years faced a 24-39% increase in the risk of
developing RA compared with nonsmokers, even after accounting for
other potential risk factors, such as age, race, pregnancy history,
menopausal status and hormone use.

Smoking is a choice, but it's easy to see why it's probably not a
very good choice, especially considering some of the horrible
diseases long-term smoking may cause. If you choose to smoke, be
aware of the risks to yourself and your children. If you'd like to
quit, your doctor can help determine the method that will work best
for you. And if you don't smoke, keep up the good work! Your body
will thank you for it.

Karlson E, Min-Lee I, Cook N, et al. A retrospective cohort study
of cigarette smoking and risk of rheumatoid arthritis in female
health professionals. Arthritis & Rheumatism, May 1999: Vol. 42,
No. 5, pp910-917.