Associated Press
WASHINGTON — Could something about teaching — perhaps the years of contact with kids and their germs — increase the risk of serious immune system diseases such as multiple sclerosis and lupus?
A new study suggests it might, backing the theory that if someone is genetically susceptible to a certain disease, environment could trigger the onset.
University of Connecticut researchers who examined 11 years of death certificates found that deaths from some autoimmune diseases among K-12 teachers were more than twice as high as those of people in other professions.
Autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are caused when the body’s immune system goes awry and attacks its own tissue.
The diseases are rare, and even the higher death rates among teachers are relatively low, considering other causes of death.
"We didn’t publish the study to scare people," said researcher Stephen Walsh, a co-author.
The study supports the theory that infections may act as triggers for people genetically susceptible to autoimmune diseases by revving up an immune system reaction.
The increased risk was statistically significant for four diseases: multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus and Sjogren’s syndrome, which inhibits the body’s ability to produce moisture.
Walsh also found a higher risk for some conditions among certain other professions, including hairdressers, nurses’ aides, health technicians, social workers and elevator operators.
Copyright ©2001 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.