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Supporting Queenslanders With Arthritis | Arthritis QLD>About Arthritis>Arthritis Insights>Postive Health Habits>The Impact Of Smoking On Arthritis
July 2020
The links between smoking and diseases like cancer, heart disease and stroke are well known. But, smoking is also a risk factor for some musculoskeletal conditions and can also increase the pain from these conditions.
There’s now a large amount of research to show that smoking can contribute to the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). For those with RA that do smoke, it can also worsen symptoms and make medications less effective.
The link between smoking and arthritis is not just limited to RA. It can cause more damage or pain, and less effective treatment for
conditions like back pain, osteoarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Smoking is also a risk factor for complications during or after
surgery. The complications can include slower wound healing, risk of of infection, drug interactions.
As well as the overall health benefits, stopping smoking can help to reduce your risk of RA or help to reduce pain or improve the chances of your medication working (AMA).
If you smoke, talk to your doctor about quitting or call Quitline on 13 7848
Call Quitline 13 7848 or visit www.quit.org.au/ to information, advice and tips.
References
Your gift will help fund self-management courses, education seminars and will provide individual support for people living with arthritis.