Association of a data-driven nutrient risk score with incident rheumatoid arthritis in UK Biobank adults: a prospective cohort study

By
Wang, Aimin
Gao, Wenfeng
Yang, Xinyu
Wang, Yanxia
Ma, Yonghua
Sun, Na
Wang, Suzhen
Wang, Peizhong Peter
Shi, Fuyan
May 7, 2026
0 min

Frontiers In Immunology

Overview

This study investigates the association between a nutrient risk score (NRS) and the incidence of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in a large cohort from the UK Biobank. Findings indicate that higher NRS correlates with a significantly increased risk of RA, particularly among individuals with high genetic susceptibility and obesity.

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can lead to significant morbidity. Understanding the role of dietary patterns in RA onset is crucial, as current guidelines emphasize early diagnosis and treatment but do not specify dietary interventions. This study provides insights into how nutrient intake may influence RA risk, potentially guiding future preventive strategies.

Data Highlights

Measure	Value
Participants Developing RA	1,756
Median Follow-Up Duration	13.4 years
Hazard Ratio for NRS Increase	1.96 (95% CI: 1.64-2.33)
HR for High Genetic Risk & High NRS	3.28 (95% CI: 2.49-4.32)

Key Findings

Each unit increase in NRS is associated with a 96% higher risk of RA.
The association between NRS and RA risk is robust across various analytical methods.
Individuals with short sleep duration and low physical activity levels show a more pronounced risk increase.
Obesity indicators mediate the association between NRS and RA risk, with mediation effects ranging from 3.81% to 13.57%.
High genetic risk individuals with the highest NRS have nearly double the risk of developing RA compared to low-risk individuals with the lowest NRS.

Clinical Implications

The findings suggest that healthcare professionals should consider dietary patterns when assessing RA risk, especially in genetically susceptible individuals. Nutrient risk scores could serve as a valuable adjunct in risk stratification and preventive strategies for RA.

Conclusion

This study highlights the significant association between nutrient intake patterns and the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, emphasizing the potential role of dietary interventions in RA prevention.