Study Links Autoimmune Condition With Near Doubling Of Mental Health Risks

Having an autoimmune condition, in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and damages healthy tissues and organs, could be linked to a near doubling of risk of experiencing persistent mental health issues, a study has found.

- Press Trust Of India

Researchers from The University of Edinburgh, UK, said that a persistent inflammation, which is a hallmark of autoimmune disorders, could explain the risks.

Women were found to be at a higher mental health risk, compared to men having the same conditions, according to the study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) Mental Health.

The study looked at six autoimmune disorders that included rheumatoid arthritis (affects joints), inflammatory bowel disease and lupus, which can damage kidneys and brain among other organs.