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Autoimmune Diseases Increase Cancer Risk by 32% in First Year

4/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

Researchers from Italy report autoimmune diseases confer a 32% higher cancer risk in the first year after diagnosis.
Lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are linked to higher rates of lung, bladder, and blood cancers.
The elevated risk declines after patients start anti-inflammatory medications, according to Daniela Marotto, co-author.
Marotto notes that chronic inflammation drives cancer development.
The study underscores cancer screening for people with autoimmune diseases, especially within the first year.

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Story summary

Researchers from Italy report autoimmune diseases confer a 32% higher cancer risk in the first year after diagnosis.
Lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are linked to higher rates of lung, bladder, and blood cancers.
The elevated risk declines after patients start anti-inflammatory medications, according to Daniela Marotto, co-author.
Marotto notes that chronic inflammation drives cancer development.
The study underscores cancer screening for people with autoimmune diseases, especially within the first year.