Is there a link between air pollution and lupus?

Autoimmune diseases can arise from a combination of genetic factors and environmental triggers. Increasingly, research has focused on the role of environmental exposures, particularly air pollution, in developing these conditions.

In a study published in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatology, researchers found that long-term exposure to pollution led to increased risks of developing lupus. Previous research has shown that air pollution can disrupt the immune system, leading to systemic inflammation and a greater risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and connective tissue diseases.

In the lupus study, researchers analyzed data from roughly 460,000 people in the U.K. Biobank and measured the air pollution at the participants' locations. After over a decade of follow-up period, about 400 participants at the biobank were diagnosed with lupus.

Analyzing the data from the biobank, researchers found that people exposed to air pollution were 13% to 27% more likely to develop lupus. Those most at risk were people with a genetic predisposition to the disease and a high exposure to air pollution. Compared to those with low genetic risk and low environmental exposure, those with high genetic risk and high exposure had a 316% to 461% greater risk of developing lupus.

Reflecting on 2024 and Planning for 2025

As we close out 2024, we’re proud to share the Autoimmune Registry’s Annual Report, detailing our accomplishments and progress over the past year.

Now, we want to hear from you! What do you hope to see ARI accomplish in 2025? Share your ideas by recording a short video through Soapboxx (you can also create the video anonymously).

To support the Autoimmune Registry, please share our information with others who have autoimmune diseases. Donations are also greatly appreciated!

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What we've accomplished in 2024!