Can medicines for rheumatoid arthritis cause lung cancer?

Question

Hello doctor,

My mother is 64 and has been on immunosuppressants for rheumatoid arthritis for nearly nine years now. We recently read that long-term use of such medications might be linked to lung cancer, and we are extremely concerned.

Can immune suppressants for rheumatoid arthritis cause lung cancer in a 64-year-old patient like her?
Should she be getting regular lung screenings?
What precautions should she take?
Does her rheumatologist need to reconsider her current medication plan immediately?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi

Welcome to icliniq.com

I have read your query and understand your concern.

I understand why this is worrying for you. Long-term use of immunosuppressant medications for rheumatoid arthritis has been studied, and while there is a slightly increased risk of certain cancers reported in some cases, it is important to know that this risk is not solely due to the medicines.

Rheumatoid arthritis (an immune system attacking joints) itself, especially when long-standing, can be associated with a higher risk of lung involvement, including rarely malignancy. Age and smoking history also play a significant role. So, these medicines alone do not directly cause lung cancer, and many patients continue them safely for years under supervision.

Regarding screening, routine lung cancer screening is generally advised only for individuals with a significant history of smoking. If your mother is a non-smoker and does not have symptoms like persistent cough, unexplained weight loss, coughing blood, or new breathlessness, then regular screening CT (computed tomography) scans are usually not necessary. However, if any of these symptoms appear, she should be evaluated without delay.

For precautions, the key is regular follow-up and early reporting of any new respiratory symptoms. Avoiding smoke exposure, maintaining good nutrition, and continuing her medications as prescribed are important. In my experience, patients who stay regular with follow-ups and report symptoms early tend to do very well even on long-term therapy.

There is no need to immediately stop or change her medications. These drugs are important to control rheumatoid arthritis, and stopping them suddenly can lead to worsening of her condition. Any change in treatment should be decided by her rheumatologist after proper assessment.

Hope I have addressed all of your queries and concerns.

Do follow up whenever needed.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.