Impact of Lifestyle and Behavioral Risk Factors on IFN-α Levels in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case-Control Study

Background: Interferon-alpha (IFN-α) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). While genetic and immunological factors are well-studied, the contribution of lifestyle variables to IFN-α dysregulation remains underexplored.Objectives: To evaluated the association between IFN-α levels and selected lifestyle risk factors in SLE patients compared to healthy controls.Methods: A case-control study included 60 SLE patients and 30 age and sex matched controls. Data on smoking, dietary habits, sun exposure were collected. Serum IFN-α was measured using ELISA. Statistical analyses included t-tests, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression.Results: Interferon-alpha levels were significantly elevated in patients with SLE (180.855 ± 43.665 pg/mL) compared to controls (95.430 ± 103.835 pg/mL; p < 0.001). Smoking, inadequate dietary practices, and restricted sun exposure were notably more common in patients with SLE. Regression analysis revealed that smoking (OR = 3.763, p < 0.001), low sun exposure (OR = 7.429, p < 0.05), and poor diet (OR = 4.750, p < 0.05) serve as independent predictors of increased IFN-α levels.Conclusion: Modifiable behavioural factors were significantly linked to elevated IFN-α levels in SLE, indicating potential targets for prevention and treatment strategies. Public health strategies aiming these variables may develop disease effects.