Is Rheumatoid Arthritis a Cause of Osteoporosis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its own joints. Osteoporosis is a disease that causes bones to be more prone to fracture. There is some question if RA is a cause of osteoporosis.

Expert Insight

• The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases reports that studies confirm a higher rate of osteoporosis in rheumatoid arthritis patients than in others.

Direct Connection

• ABC News reports that studies conclude that there is direct connection between osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis, because the bone loss is greatest in the areas directly surrounding the arthritic joints.

Medication Connection

• Glucocorticoid medications that are often used to treat rheumatoid arthritis may trigger osteoporosis.

Inactivity

• The pain and damage to joints resulting from rheumatoid arthritis often lead to inactivity. This leads to an increased risk of osteoporosis.

Women at Higher Risk

• Women are the highest risk group for developing both osteoporosis and rheumatoid arthritis.