Rheumatoid Arthritis Causes & Risks

Causes

RA is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors that trigger an abnormal immune response. Possible causes:

Genetic factors—Certain genes that play a role in the immune system are associated with RA development.
Defects in the immune system can cause ongoing inflammation.
Environmental factors—Certain infectious agents, such as some viruses or bacteria, may increase susceptibility to RA.
Other factors—Some evidence suggests that hormonal factors may promote RA development in combination with genetic factors and environmental exposure.

Risk Factors

These factors increase your chance of developing RA. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:

Family members with RA
Sex: female
Ethnic background: Pima Indians
Heavy or long-term smoking

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2026 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.