Work

Exposure to ambient benzene, genetic susceptibility, and incident rheumatic diseases in the UK

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and gout are prevalent rheumatic diseases. Methods: We examined the associations of long-term ambient benzene exposure and genetic susceptibility with incident SLE, RA, and gout, as well as their joint associations with disease risk. Results: Among participants with available ambient benzene estimates during the median follow-up of 13.6 to 13.7 years, 469 SLE, 7,494 RA, and 9,816 gout cases occurred during follow-up. Compared with participants with the lowest benzene exposure, those with the highest exposure had approximately 39, 17, and 26% higher risks of SLE, RA, and gout, respectively. Participants with both high benzene exposure and high genetic susceptibility consistently showed the highest disease risks. Conclusion: This large UK cohort study found that both ambient benzene exposure and genetic risk factors were collectively associated with increased risks of SLE, RA, and gout.

Source: Frontiers in Public Health

DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2026.1931281

Authors: Yangchang Zhang, Dongni Huang, Yang Pu, Bin Wu

Institutions: Chongqing University, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing College of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Language: English

Topic: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Research

Subfield: Rheumatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801