Arthritis is one of the words that most of us have heard because of aching joints or a diagnosis from a family member, which leads to a common concern: Is arthritis hereditary? The answer is yes, sometimes, but it's a lot more nuanced in comparison to "you inherit arthritis." This guide will help you understand what the latest research suggests about how genes and lifestyle are interconnected, and what you can do if there's a family history.
Heredity in Different Types of Arthritis
Different forms of arthritis have distinct genetic causes. Here are two of the most extensively studied:
Rheumatoid Arthritis
RA can be described as an autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to attack the joints. Genetic causes are extremely powerful in this case. It is believed that between 50 and 60 percent of the risk for RA is due to genetic causes.
A key marker of genetics can be found in the HLADRB1 gene (part of the HLA system) that plays an important role in the immune response. Several studies indicate that people with particular versions that have this gene tend to be more susceptible to developing RA.
Osteoarthritis
OA, the type that many people envision as they consider "arthritis," is more about wear and tear and the degeneration of cartilage, not autoimmune issues. Genetics plays a significant part. Studies on twins and families suggest the heritability of 40 to 65 percent for OA in specific joints like hands or knees, hips, particularly for women.
Certain specific genes associated with OA have been implicated in the cartilage structure (e.g., collagen gene) as well as repair processes. However, no one gene is responsible for OA for the majority of people, and that's extremely uncommon. It's a result of a variety of genes, along with joint injury and obesity, aging, etc.
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Final Thoughts
So, is arthritis genetic? Yes, in a number of cases, genetics may provide a person with an advantage in the sense that they are more likely to suffer from specific types of arthritis. But, it's not an assurance. Genes are just a tiny element of the equation. Your actions, lifestyle habits, and the environment are all crucial. At Arthritis Aid, our message is that knowing your risk is power. If you have a family history, you can take steps now to protect your joints and delay or even reduce the chances and severity of arthritis developing.
Sources
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MedlinePlus: Rheumatoid arthritis genetics overview
https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/rheumatoid-arthritis/? -
“Genetic Influence on Osteoarthritis Versus Other Rheumatic Diseases,” Arthritis & Rheumatology (twin study)
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37691153/ -
“Risk factors for osteoarthritis: genetics”
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14698640/ -
“Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to RA and OA.”
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20398001/ -
“Is arthritis hereditary?”, Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/is-arthritis-hereditary
