The effects of smoking on mortality rates in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

This study looked at the effect of smoking on mortality rates in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The authors concluded that overall mortality and cardiovascular and lung cancer mortality rates were higher in current smokers compared to non-smokers. 

Smoking is a known risk factor for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The percentage of smokers is therefore higher in RA patients than in the general population. The risks associated with smoking in the general population are well known and there is evidence that quitting smoking can increase chances of survival.

Mortality rates are approximately 1.5 times higher in RA patients than in the general population. Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), lung cancer, severe infection and respiratory diseases are the most common causes of mortality in RA patients. The fact that there are a high number of smokers with RA may contribute to the increased risk of mortality.  

5,677 RA patients were included in this study. 40% of patients were non-smokers. 34% were former smokers. 26% were current smokers. Overall mortality rates and mortality associated with cancer, CVD, lower respiratory tract infection and other respiratory diseases were looked at in each group.

For current smokers, overall mortality rates were 1.98 times higher when compared to non-smokers. Mortality due to CVD was 1.96 times higher and mortality due to lung cancer was 23.2 times higher in current smokers. For each year that a patient had given up smoking, the study showed a 15% decrease in overall mortality rates for former heavy smokers and a 10% decrease for former light smokers. 

This study concluded that current smoking is associated with an increase in overall mortality, cardiovascular mortality and lung cancer mortality in RA patients. Giving up smoking can also decrease overall mortality rates. 

This study only includes patients from one country. Frequency of smoking was based on information supplied by the patients during doctor visits and may not be completely accurate. 

Consult with your physician regarding the support available for quitting smoking.