The study also shows that no significant correlation was found between fetal growth and other perinatal factors.
Experiencing severe infections in childhood and having a twin brother were also associated with ankylosing spondylitis. Photo: Medicine and Public Health Magazine.
Swelling of the joints of the spineOne of the chronic forms of arthritis is arthritis, an inflammatory condition that, over time, can cause fusion of certain vertebrae in the spine. This fusion reduces the flexibility of the spine and can result in a slouched posture. In cases where the ribs are affected, the ability to take deep breaths may be affected.
In this situation, Swedish researchers have revealed two new risk factors. These findings support the hypothesis that childhood infection plays an important role in the development of this disease.
Genetics and environmental factors in disease expression
Genetic predisposition has always been a central component, accounting for 80% of cases Swelling of the joints of the spine, However, the role of environmental factors is less explored.
Mechanical stress, infection, and changes in intestinal microbiota have been considered potential triggers. In this context, the Swedish study decided to investigate perinatal factors, especially those related to pregnancy, childbirth and childhood transitions.
Perinatal factors and family aspects
Using Swedish national registries, more than 5,600 cases Swelling of the joints of the spine and more than 22,000 controls without inflammatory arthritis. The microanalysis included perinatal factors in three key areas: pregnancy and delivery, family circumstances, and infections during childhood.
Additionally, significant associations were explored using siblings of patients as a control group (3,965 patients with and 6,070 siblings without Swelling of the joints of the spine), with the aim of ruling out the possible effects of genetic factors or other family-related aspects, such as the mother’s characteristics and socio-economic context.
Relationship with older siblings and tonsillectomy
According to the study, no significant association was found between fetal growth and other perinatal factors and risks Swelling of the joints of the spine, Although various related aspects have been investigated, results show that these elements are not directly associated with disease predisposition.
Instead, it turned out that having an older sibling and going through a tonsillectomy emerged as major risk factors in childhood. Additionally, experiencing serious infections in childhood and having a twin brother were also significantly associated. Swelling of the joints of the spine In case-control analyses, however, the association was reduced in comparisons between siblings.
Genetic factors in future studies
This study not only identifies new risk elements, but also uses siblings of patients as controls to rule out genetic and familial factors. This provides a solid foundation for future research and highlights the importance of understanding genetic and environmental complexities Swelling of the joints of the spine,
These discoveries not only contribute to the knowledge of this disease, but may also have an impact in the early identification of risks and the development of preventive strategies.
Source consulted: here.