Poland | An expert from University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn has provided new insights into autoimmune diseases, explaining how the body’s immune system can mistakenly attack its own tissues and organs.Dr. Joanna Rutkowska highlighted that autoimmune diseases are chronic conditions caused by an abnormal immune response. Instead of protecting the body, the immune system produces antibodies that trigger inflammation and eventually disrupt normal organ function. The symptoms vary depending on the affected organ and whether the disease develops gradually or rapidly.Among the most common autoimmune conditions are thyroid-related diseases such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease. Other examples include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, lupus, type 1 diabetes, and gastrointestinal disorders like Crohn’s disease and celiac disease. According to the expert, Hashimoto’s disease alone affects around 10 percent of the population in Poland and is significantly more common in women.The exact causes of autoimmune diseases remain unclear, but researchers point to a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. Lifestyle elements such as smoking, infections, and exposure to certain chemicals may trigger the onset in susceptible individuals. Diet and gut microbiome health are also believed to play an important role.Dr. Rutkowska emphasized that common misconceptions exist around supplementation. Excessive iodine intake may actually increase the risk of Hashimoto’s disease, while the benefits of selenium supplementation remain uncertain. Similarly, adopting a gluten-free diet without medical necessity is not recommended.Although autoimmune diseases cannot currently be fully cured, their symptoms can be effectively managed. Early diagnosis, proper medication, balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and routine medical check-ups are key to maintaining quality of life.The discussion also addressed the link between thyroid diseases and environmental events, noting that incidents like nuclear accidents have increased certain cancer risks, but modern diagnostics allow for early detection and successful treatment.
Source: University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn
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