The development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in men may be caused by low testosterone. This was reported by Swedish scientists, reports The Times of India..

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease of the connective tissue, accompanied by joint damage.. Experts believe that the lack of male sex hormone is associated with RA. However, scientists are still unclear whether the hormone is a factor that provokes the development of RA, or its consequence..

The findings of the researchers are based mainly on the results of the Swedish Malmo Preventive Medicine Program, which started back in 1974.. Experts in the course of their work monitored the health status of more than 33 thousand. volunteers born between 1921 and 1949. Participants were asked to take a test, provide some information about their health and lifestyle by filling out a questionnaire, and also take a blood test..

As a result, according to national and regional registries, it was found that 104 men developed rheumatoid arthritis over time, while 174 participants were not diagnosed with the disease.. "

Experts noted that even when taking into account factors such as smoking and body mass index, which affect the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, men with low testosterone levels in their blood are more likely to develop RA..

The study was published online in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases..

global science. en.