There are a number of factors that have been associated with increased risk of developing RA, including female sex, genetics, and environmental factors. Some of the environmental risk factors include a history of smoking, exposure to silica (via dust or occupational exposure) or infectious agents, vitamin D deficiency, and obesity. There is also a significant genetic component to RA. Studies in twins have estimated that RA may have around 60% heritability.[1] Certain variants of the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes, which encode proteins that are important for the function of the immune system, have strong risk associations with RA.
What are the risk factors for developing rheumatoid arthritis?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Risk factors for developing rheumatoid arthritis (RA) include female sex, genetic predisposition, and various environmental factors such as smoking, silica exposure, vitamin D deficiency, and obesity. Additionally, certain variants of the human leukocyte antigen genes are strongly associated with an increased risk of RA.