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The new research, published by Swedish scientists, reveals an association suggesting that alcohol may reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
Prof Robert Moots, speaking for the Arthritis Research Campaign, said:
“Whilst, at first sight, the report does not appear to provide a comfortable message, it is important not to over-interpret its results.
“There is no doubt that drinking too much is very bad for our health in many ways – and these risks by far outweigh any potential benefit for reducing the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, which this study points to, without being conclusive. We must also remember that drinking alcohol in excess can be especially dangerous in patients taking some anti-rheumatoid drugs that may cause liver damage.
“Drinking a moderate amount of alcohol may have a protective effect against rheumatoid arthritis, in ways that we don’t yet understand — possibly comparable to effects of drinking moderate amounts of red wine on cardiovascular disease.
“There are many modifiable lifestyle risk factors for developing rheumatoid arthritis, and as this study also points out, smoking is by far the greatest.”