A risk factor is something that raises the chances of getting a health problem. A person can get scleroderma with or without the ones listed below. The chances of getting it are greater in people who have many risk factors.
Localized scleroderma is more common in women and people who are White. It can happen in both children and adults. Systemic sclerosis is more common in people who are 20 to 50 years of age.
Other things that may raise the risk are:
- Genetics —People with first-degree family members with systemic lupus erythematosus have a higher risk of systemic scleroderma.
- The environment —Exposure to chemicals or solvents may raise the risk of systemic scleroderma.
