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Sarcoidosis and Who It Affects

Statistics regarding sarcoidosis and who it affects indicate that anyone can develop the condition, although some races and ethnic groups appear to be more prone to it than others. People in certain occupations may be more likely to get sarcoidosis -- these people include healthcare workers, firefighters, and people exposed to certain chemicals in the course of their job.

An Overview of Sarcoidosis and Who It Affects

Sarcoidosis affects people of all ages and races worldwide.
 
It occurs mostly in:
 
  • Adults between the ages of 20 and 40
  • African Americans (especially women)
  • People of Asian, German, Irish, Puerto Rican, and Scandinavian origin.
     
In the United States, sarcoidosis affects African Americans somewhat more often and more severely than Caucasians.
 
Sarcoidosis research studies have shown that sarcoidosis is more likely to affect certain organs in certain populations. For example:
 
  • Sarcoidosis of the heart and eye appears to be more common in Japan
  • Painful skin lumps on the legs occur more often in people from Northern Europe.
     
People who are more likely to get sarcoidosis include:
 
  • Healthcare workers
  • Nonsmokers
  • Elementary and secondary school teachers
  • People exposed to agricultural dust, insecticides, pesticides, or mold
  • Firefighters
  • Brothers and sisters, parents, and children of people who have sarcoidosis.
     

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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
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