Exposure to specific pesticides is linked to increased rheumatoid arthritis risk, with notable dose-response trends for malathion and carbofuran among older licensed applicators in the Agricultural Health Study.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic autoimmune disease associated with long-term damage and disabilities. The disease is characterized by joint inflammation and multiorgan adversities.

Common risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis include older age, family history and genetics, smoking, and occupational exposure to respirable silica dust. The study highlights that smoking can interact with pesticide exposure, modifying the risk of rheumatoid arthritis in certain cases. Pesticides used in farming can also increase the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.