Autoimmune diseases exhibit a distinct gender disparity, with women being more frequently affected than men. This imbalance is attributed to a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Women’s immune systems tend to be more active, which can lead to the immune system attacking the body’s own cells, resulting in autoimmune conditions like lupus, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Estrogen, a hormone more prominent in women, has been linked to the heightened immune response, while men’s testosterone levels are thought to have a protective effect. Understanding this gender factor is crucial for improving diagnosis, treatment, and management of autoimmune diseases.
