SMOKING and my Rheumatology condition

Any inflammatory condition increases your risk of cardiovascular disease, and if you smoke that risk is increased further.

Smokers are at increased risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, and patients with rheumatoid arthritis who smoke have worse arthritis than those who don’t as the medication does not work as well.

We strongly encourage you to stop smoking. You can speak with you GP for help on how to quit smoking.

Useful Links:

• NRAS – Smoking and Rheumatoid Arthritis

https://www.nras.org.uk/smoking-and-rheumatoid-arthritis/

• NHS – Quit smoking

https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/