Is rheumatoid arthritis hereditary?

Generally speaking, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has a genetic predisposition, but it is not a genetic disease in the traditional sense. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If there are immediate family members with rheumatoid arthritis, the risk of an individual developing the condition will be relatively higher. Rheumatoid arthritis is associated with alleles such as DR4 and DR1 within the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) system. Carriers of these genes have an increased risk of developing RA. Additionally, other non-HLA genes are also linked to the onset of RA, such as PTPN22 and TRAF1/C5. Therefore, if there are RA patients in the family, especially those carrying RA-related genes, the genetic tendency is more evident.

Although genetic factors lay the foundation for disease onset, rheumatoid arthritis is not determined by a single gene, and environmental factors are also crucial. Smoking, long-term exposure to silica dust, infections, and other factors may trigger the immune system of genetically susceptible individuals to attack joint tissues, thereby inducing the disease. Therefore, even if risk genes are carried, avoiding adverse environmental exposures can reduce the likelihood of developing RA.

In conclusion, rheumatoid arthritis is a polygenic hereditary disease, with both genetic factors and environmental and lifestyle elements jointly contributing to its development. Individuals with a family history should undergo regular physical examinations to monitor indicators such as rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies. Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, such as quitting smoking and engaging in regular exercise, can help prevent the disease early or delay its progression. If symptoms such as joint swelling and pain occur, timely medical consultation for diagnosis is recommended.