Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lung Cancer

Does rheumatoid arthritis increase the risk of acquiring lung cancer? This question seems to up in the air.

Research done by the NDB (National Databank for Rheumatic Diseases) in 2006 found no increased risk of lung cancer among those with rheumatoid arthritis. However, it did find increased risk for those who smoked, had lower levels of education, and had dyspnea.

Recently, a study done at Temple University Hospital found just the opposite results. According to their data, those with rheumatoid arthritis are at an increased risk to acquire lung cancer. They go on to say that this is so even with no evidence of tobacco use or asbestos exposure.

The doctors and researchers may still be up in arms with this question. It is important to note that the FDA is still investigating whether drugs used to treat RA are linked to cancers.