Women Are More Prone to Autoimmune Diseases, Here’s a Health Guide from Experts at IPB University
Autoimmune diseases have become a serious global health concern. Globally, about 10 percent of the population or 1 in 10 to 15 people is affected by autoimmune diseases. Data from The Lancet show a rising trend in the national prevalence of autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and type 1 diabetes.
In Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, the percentage of people with autoimmune diseases ranges from 3–5 percent. Of that number, about 80 percent of those affected are women. The incidence of autoimmune diseases in Southeast Asia is predicted to continue rising alongside urbanization and environmental changes.
Prof Ronny Rachman Noor, an expert in Ecological Genetics at IPB University, explains that autoimmune diseases occur when our immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells by misidentifying antigens. As a result, autoantibodies are formed, triggering inflammation and potentially damaging the body’s organs.
“Generally, symptoms of autoimmune diseases often include extreme fatigue, joint or muscle pain, skin rashes or discoloration, recurring mild fevers, digestive issues such as diarrhea or abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss,” explained Prof Ronny.
He revealed that autoimmune diseases are highly diverse, with more than 100 types. Some of the well known ones include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, myositis, psoriasis, vitiligo, and scleroderma. In the digestive system, there are Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and ulcerative colitis. Among hormonal disorders are type 1 diabetes, Hashimoto’s disease, and Graves’ disease. Neurological disorders include multiple sclerosis and myasthenia gravis.
Based on research, Prof Ronny explained that women are more prone to autoimmune disorders due to genetic factors, the hormones estrogen and progesterone, and immunological factors. Although a strong immune system is vital for protecting a pregnancy, it can also make the body more susceptible to attacks from within itself.
“Autoimmune disorders are not directly inherited by children, but there is a genetic predisposition that increases their risk, in addition to environmental factors. Autoimmune diseases arise from a combination of genetic and environmental factors, not solely due to inherited genetic defects,” said Prof Ronny.
Regarding the interaction between genetics and the environment, Prof Ronny explained that susceptible genes are not always active. The environment can play a major role in activating or deactivating genes through epigenetic mechanisms, such as deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) methylation.
“For example, someone with a specific HLA gene might not develop the disease without a triggering infection. Similarly, women at risk for lupus may experience a flare-up after exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light or during periods of mental stress,” he explained.
If diagnosed with an autoimmune disease, it is important not only to follow treatment but also to manage one’s lifestyle and seek psychosocial support. Prof Ronny recommends consulting regularly with a rheumatologist and immunologist. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), corticosteroids, immunomodulators, or specialized therapies such as insulin for type 1 diabetes.
“People with autoimmune diseases are advised to start adopting a healthy lifestyle, such as maintaining a balanced diet, following an anti inflammatory diet, avoiding cigarettes, managing stress, getting enough sleep, and keeping track of symptom triggers. Additionally, these small steps help you feel better every day,” concluded Prof Ronny. (MHT) (IAAS/LAN)
