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In India, women face a higher impact from autoimmune diseases, with almost 70% of patients being female, as mentioned by experts at the 40th conference of the Indian Rheumatology Association (IRACON). Autoimmune diseases happen when the immune system, which usually defends against germs, mistakenly attacks the body’s own cells. This can result in illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, thyroiditis, psoriasis, and Sjogren’s syndrome, which can affect joints, skin, blood vessels, and even important organs such as the heart and lungs. During a special discussion about women’s health and autoimmune diseases, doctors pointed out both biological and social reasons for this issue. “Women’s immune systems are typically more robust and better at fighting off infections. However, at times, this system misbehaves and attacks healthy cells, leading to autoimmune illnesses," stated Dr Uma Kumar, who leads Rheumatology at AIIMS New Delhi.
A recent research from Stanford University has highlighted a potential biological cause. Scientists discovered that a molecule called Xist RNA, which women produce to manage one of their two X chromosomes, can occasionally mislead the immune system, making it attack healthy cells. Professionals caution that waiting too long for treatment can worsen results. “In my clinic, I often see women who come in after many years of dealing with joint pain, swelling, or tiredness," shared Dr Bimlesh Dhar Pandey, Director of Rheumatology at Fortis Hospital, adding, “By the time they ask for help, their organs or joints might already be harmed. Early testing is crucial."
Dr Neeraj Jain, Vice President of Rheumatology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, repeated these worries, mentioning social and environmental factors that raise the risk. Dr Pulin Gupta from Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital noted that many women receive wrong treatments for years prior to seeing a specialist. “Recognizing issues early and sending patients to a rheumatologist can help avoid lasting disabilities," he commented. Dr Rohini Handa, President of the IRACON conference, stressed that autoimmune diseases are just as common as diabetes or heart disease, yet they get much less attention. “When 70% of patients are women, we cannot ignore the gender aspect. There is an urgent need for awareness, research, and improved access to treatment," she stated.
Doctors explain that, in addition to genetic and hormonal factors, lifestyle and environmental aspects are contributing to the rise of autoimmune disorders in Indian women. Inactive lifestyles, poor diets, stress, lack of sleep, and growing pollution are all factors. Some research indicates that coming into contact with industrial chemicals and air pollution can upset hormones and the immune system, increasing the chance of illness. India is seriously lacking rheumatology specialists, with under 1,000 experts available for millions of patients. Experts suggest that primary care doctors should be trained to spot early signs and refer patients quickly. They also believe that testing for autoimmune diseases should become as normal as tests for cancer or pregnancy.
