Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Success May Potentially Be Reduced by Obesity and Smoking

(Newswire.net — May 9, 2017) Orlando, FL — Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is, as many people already know, a painful and debilitating condition. There are pain management options available for the condition. However, there are factors believed to decrease the effectiveness of this treatment.

Rheumatoid arthritis treatment success may potentially be reduced by obesity and smoking. Obesity has already been believed to be an epidemic in many areas around the world. Smoking, on the other hand, is an unhealthy habit that governments and many health organizations are warning consumers against.

In a study presented at the European League Against Rheumatism Annual Congress (EULAR 2016), it was revealed that there is a significantly lower likelihood of achieving sustained remission in early RA for those who are obese and who smoke.

The findings of the study suggest that individuals with rheumatoid arthritis should be encouraged to stop smoking and maintain a healthy body weight. This may significantly enhance their chance of staying symptom-free after an adequate treatment.

In the recommendations of EULAR, it was stated that remission, which pertains to the absence of disease activity, is actually the target of treatment in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.

It is important to remember that many RA sufferers do not succeed in achieving or maintaining remission. According to statistics, at least 50% of sufferers in developed countries do not maintain a full-time job within ten years of onset.

Dr. Susan Bartlett, study investigator from McGill University in Montreal, Canada, states that despite the high obesity rate and prevalence of individuals who smoke in the RA population, little is known about whether these modifiable lifestyle factors impact the chance of achieving sustained remission.

The findings of the study reveal that maintaining a healthy body weight as well as avoiding tobacco use are essential in becoming symptom-free.

It is important to remember that this chronic disabling disease effects the connective tissues, joints, tendons, muscle, and fibrous tissue. Individuals who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis are more likely to be in pain and deformed.

According to statistics, RA prevalence varies between 0.3% and 1% worldwide. It is also found to be more common in women and in developed countries. It is undeniable that many individuals who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis live a reduced quality of life. This condition causes pain almost on a daily basis.

There are alternatives believed to be helpful for arthritis pain, such as glucosamine. This naturally-occurring substance in the body is believed to help repair damaged cartilage and may also help to improve overall joint health.

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