Is Rheumatoid Arthritis Preventable? The Empowering Answer We Need to Share

As someone involved in sharing stories about Rheumatoid Arthritis, the question, "Is RA preventable?" is one that weighs heavily on the mind. We all think of our siblings, our children, or close relatives—those who carry a slightly higher risk.

For a long time, the answer was vague. But modern research, particularly an impactful study led by Dr. Jeffrey A. Sparks, has delivered a clear and powerful message: Yes, we can take meaningful steps to reduce the risk, and personalized knowledge is the key motivator.

Let’s dive into how a simple, personalized approach is helping those most at risk transform their health behaviors for the better.

The Groundbreaking PRE-RA Study (And Why It Matters Years Later)

Back in 2017/2018, Dr. Sparks and his colleagues published the results of the Personalized Risk Estimator for Rheumatoid Arthritis (PRE-RA) Family Study.

This was a randomized, controlled trial involving 238 first-degree relatives of RA patients (people like siblings or children who are naturally at a higher risk). 

Participants were given either standard RA information or a personalized risk assessment based on their specific genetics, biomarkers, and lifestyle factors.

The goal wasn't just to measure fear; it was to measure motivation.

The Key Findings that Still Hold True:

• Motivation Soars with Personalization: As Dr. Sparks noted, simply giving at-risk relatives a personalized RA risk calculator made them significantly more motivated to change their health behaviors compared to those receiving standard care.

• Knowledge is Power: Participants who received the personalized risk information showed a much higher and sustained knowledge of the specific risk factors for RA.

• The Empowerment Factor: Contrary to fears that personalized risk assessment would cause distress, the study actually found that those who received the personalized risk information were more likely to feel reassured and had less anxiety than the control group. Knowledge, even high-risk knowledge, allowed them to feel agency over their health.

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The 4 Modifiable Pillars of RA Risk Reduction

The study focused on four critical lifestyle factors that are now strongly linked to RA risk. This is the most actionable takeaway for anyone looking to reduce their personal risk:

1. Quit Smoking (The #1 Factor): Smoking is the single strongest and most preventable risk factor for RA. The study saw a remarkable number of current smokers quit after receiving their personalized risk assessment. This is the most crucial step you can take.

2. Manage Weight and Exercise: Excess body weight (obesity) is an inflammatory factor that increases RA risk. Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in regular physical activity is a direct way to reduce systemic inflammation.

3. Prioritize Dental Health: Poor oral health, specifically chronic gum disease (periodontitis), is linked to the development of RA-related antibodies. Brush and floss daily! This simple step can have a profound effect on your whole-body health.

4.  Increase Omega-3 Intake: Low fish and omega-3 consumption is a dietary factor tied to increased risk. Incorporate more fatty fish (like salmon or mackerel) into your diet or discuss a high-quality omega-3 supplement with your doctor.

My Personal Message to You

For those of us living with RA, our journey can feel like it was purely driven by chance. But for our loved ones, the message is one of empowerment.

The science confirms that we are not helpless against this disease. By focusing on these four key areas, we are not just reducing the risk of RA; we are reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and countless other chronic conditions. As Dr. Sparks wisely said, "we know these are healthy behaviors from many aspects." This is a win-win.

If you are an at-risk relative, please take this information to heart. Talk to your primary care physician about these lifestyle changes. The knowledge you have is a tool for a healthier, more confident future.

References

1. Sparks JA, Iversen MD, Yu Z, et al. Disclosure of personalized rheumatoid arthritis risk using genetics, biomarkers, and lifestyle factors to motivate health behavior improvements: A randomized controlled trial. Arthritis Care Res. 2017 (in press).