title: [Gender differences in autoimmune diseases illustrated by rheumatoid arthritis].
abstract: Many autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) show gender differences. RA is triggered by an interaction between genetic, hormonal, environmental and behavioural factors. 75% of cases are women under the age of 60; lover the age 60 the gender ratio is 1:1. Different genotypes predispose for RA. Pregnancy often suppresses RA, as does oral contraception. Lactation, smoking (w), BMI > 30, heavy vibrations and certain dust particles (m) may trigger RA, while the effect of male hormones is uncertain. Future prevention should focus on environment, behavioural factors and genetic profiling.
authors.affiliation: Frederiksberg Hospital, Parker Instituttet, Københavns Universitetsbibliotek. parker@frh.regionh.dk
authors.forename: Bente
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Danneskiold-Samsøe
authors.forename: Else Marie
authors.initials: EM
authors.lastname: Bartels
authors.forename: Lene
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Dreyer
mesh_terms: D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000209:etiology / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism; D004781:Environmental Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D008593:Menopause; D011247:Pregnancy; D012727:Sex Characteristics; D012737:Sex Factors; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors