HSA | FSA CARDS ARE NOW ACCEPTED

Last reviewed: May 12, 2026 Last updated: May 12, 2026

Written by: Jay Hastings , CEO of PlexusDx

Jay Hastings is the CEO of PlexusDx, a precision health company focused on genetic testing, blood biomarker insights, and personalized wellness recommendations. He has more than 20 years of experience across healthcare innovation, genomics, laboratory operations, healthcare investing, and strategic finance. His work has included scaling healthcare startups, leading CLIA lab integrations, and helping expand consumer access to precision health tools.

Medically reviewed by: Jayden Lee, PharmD, EMBA

Jayden Lee, PharmD, EMBA, is the PlexusDx Medical Science Liaison with a PharmD and MBA specializing in pharmacogenomics and clinical product development, with a proven ability to bridge the gap between genomic research and practical patient outcomes. Dr. Lee has more than 10 years of professional experience in clinical pharmacy, academia, and research.

HFE Gene and Joint Health: What Your Genotype May Mean

Arthritis refers to a group of conditions that cause joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. The HFE gene is best known for its role in hereditary hemochromatosis, a condition that increases iron absorption. When iron builds up in the body, it can deposit in joints and cause damage that looks similar to osteoarthritis. Certain variants of the HFE gene are associated with higher risk of joint degeneration, especially in the hands, hips, and ankles. Below you will find an easy-to-understand explanation of how different genotypes at rs1800562 may influence joint risk, plus practical diet, supplement, exercise, and testing considerations to support joint health.

How HFE Variants Can Affect Joints

  • Excess iron accumulation can promote oxidative stress and inflammation in joint tissues, contributing to cartilage breakdown and accelerated osteoarthritis-like changes.
  • Some HFE variants increase iron absorption from food, which raises the chance of iron deposition if not monitored or managed.
  • Research suggests that certain HFE changes might influence osteoarthritis risk even when overall iron levels are not markedly elevated.
Two effect alleles (AA at rs1800562) — Increased risk

You carry two copies of the effect allele at rs1800562. This genotype is associated with a higher risk of osteoarthritis related to HFE. The pattern is linked to hereditary hemochromatosis, which can cause excess iron absorption and iron deposition in joints. Over time, iron buildup may damage cartilage, especially in the hands, hips, and ankles, producing symptoms similar to accelerated osteoarthritis.

If you have this genotype, consider proactive monitoring and lifestyle steps to protect joints and overall health.

One effect allele (AG at rs1800562) — Likely increased risk

You carry one copy of the effect allele. This genotype is associated with a likely increased risk of osteoarthritis compared with the non-effect genotype. A single copy may raise iron absorption modestly and can contribute to iron accumulation in tissues, including joints. Some studies suggest that even without clinical iron overload, these variants can influence joint health—particularly in the hands and ankles.

Maintaining joint-supportive habits and discussing targeted testing with your healthcare provider are reasonable steps.

No effect alleles (GG at rs1800562) — Typical HFE-related risk

You carry two copies of the non-effect allele. This genotype indicates you do not carry the HFE variant commonly linked to hereditary hemochromatosis. Your genetic risk for HFE-related iron accumulation in joints is not elevated compared to those with effect alleles. That said, osteoarthritis has many causes, so general joint health strategies remain valuable.

Practical Steps to Support Joint Health

Diet and Nutrition

  • Follow an anti-inflammatory eating pattern emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and lean proteins.
  • Include sources of omega-3 fats such as fatty fish, walnuts, chia seeds, or algae-based supplements. Omega-3s help reduce joint inflammation.
  • Limit processed foods, refined sugars, and excess saturated fats, which can increase systemic inflammation.
  • If you are at risk for iron overload, avoid unnecessary high-dose iron supplements and be cautious with excessive red meat intake; discuss iron intake with your healthcare provider.
  • Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D for bone support via food sources and safe sun exposure or supplements if advised by your clinician.

Supplements to Consider

  • Glucosamine and chondroitin: Some people report symptomatic relief for joint pain; responses vary.
  • Omega-3 supplements: Useful for reducing inflammation in people who do not consume enough dietary omega-3s.
  • Vitamin D: Adequate levels support bone health and muscle function. Test levels before starting high doses.
  • Calcium: Consider if dietary intake is low; balance with vitamin D and medical guidance.
  • Antioxidant-rich supplements: Curcumin or botanical anti-inflammatories may help some individuals, but discuss interactions and dosing with your provider.

Exercise and Lifestyle

  • Prioritize regular low-impact exercise such as walking, swimming, cycling, or tai chi to maintain joint mobility and muscle strength.
  • Strength training for supporting muscles around joints reduces joint stress and improves function.
  • Maintain a healthy weight. Every pound of excess weight increases load on weight-bearing joints.
  • Use good posture and ergonomic supports when sitting, standing, or lifting to reduce joint strain.
  • Stay hydrated to support joint lubrication and cartilage health.
  • Avoid repetitive joint overuse and protect joints during activities with appropriate padding or supportive footwear.

Blood Tests and Medical Monitoring

  • If you have one or two effect alleles, consider discussing iron-related tests with your healthcare provider: serum ferritin, transferrin saturation, and serum iron can help assess iron status and guide management.
  • Periodic monitoring of liver function and other organ assessments may be recommended for people at risk of hereditary hemochromatosis.
  • Baseline vitamin D testing can inform appropriate supplementation.
  • If you experience persistent joint pain, swelling, redness, or reduced range of motion, seek clinical evaluation. Imaging or specialist referral may be needed to diagnose specific types of arthritis.

When to Talk to Your Healthcare Provider

  • If you carry HFE risk variants and have symptoms like progressive joint pain, stiffness, or early-onset osteoarthritis features, schedule an evaluation.
  • Discuss appropriate blood testing for iron status and potential follow-up plans if tests are abnormal.
  • Review any supplements you are taking to avoid interactions and ensure safe dosing based on your overall health and medications.
  • If you have a family history of hereditary hemochromatosis, liver disease, or premature arthritis, inform your clinician so they can tailor screening and care.

Final Notes and Disclaimer

PlexusDx provides genetic information to help you understand potential predispositions and supportive lifestyle strategies. PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication, supplement, or major lifestyle change, and to interpret genetic results in the context of your personal and family medical history.

If this genetic variant is present in your PlexusDx results, the following tests and reports are commonly used to explore it further:

🧬 Genetic Tests:

🧪 Blood Tests:

📄 Genetic Report:

Frequently Asked Questions About ARTHRITIS and HFE rs1800562

How does my HFE rs1800562 genotype affect my risk of osteoarthritis?

At rs1800562, carrying effect alleles (AA) is associated with increased risk of osteoarthritis related to HFE. Carrying one effect allele (AG) suggests likely increased risk compared with the non-effect genotype. Having no effect alleles (GG) indicates you do not carry the HFE variant commonly linked to hereditary hemochromatosis-related iron accumulation in joints, though osteoarthritis can have many causes.

What joint-health lifestyle changes are most helpful if I have one or two HFE effect alleles?

An anti-inflammatory eating pattern—rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and lean proteins—can support joint health. Prioritize omega-3 sources (fatty fish, walnuts, chia seeds, or algae-based options) and limit processed foods, refined sugars, and excess saturated fats. Stay active with low-impact exercise (walking, swimming, cycling, tai chi) and add strength training to support joints, maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint load, and protect joints from repetitive overuse.

What blood tests should I ask about for HFE-related joint risk?

If you carry one or two effect alleles, discuss iron-related testing with your healthcare provider. Common labs include serum ferritin, transferrin saturation, and serum iron to help assess iron status and guide management. Depending on risk, clinicians may also recommend periodic liver function monitoring and baseline vitamin D testing. If you have persistent joint pain, swelling, redness, or reduced range of motion, seek clinical evaluation for diagnosis and appropriate care.

What tests can help me learn more about ARTHRITIS and HFE rs1800562?

The Longevity and Healthy Aging Genetic Test delivers over 200 genetic insights related to cellular repair, inflammation balance, metabolism, cardiometabolic health, and aging pathways. The Healthy Aging Genetic Report translates your results into personalized, actionable guidance. Your healthcare provider can also recommend targeted blood tests based on your specific pathway results and health history to complement your genetic insights with current biomarker data.

Medical and Editorial Standards

Medical review process: This article was reviewed for medical accuracy, scientific clarity, evidence alignment, and appropriate discussion of genetics, medications, supplements, biomarkers, and health-related claims.

Sources and evidence: PlexusDx educational content is developed using peer-reviewed research, clinical literature, reputable medical references, and, where applicable, public health or regulatory guidance. References are included at the end of the article when scientific, medical, or health-related claims are discussed.

Commercial transparency: PlexusDx offers genetic testing, blood biomarker testing, personalized supplement recommendations, and related precision wellness services. Product mentions are intended to help readers understand available options and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

Important disclaimer: PlexusDx educational content is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about medications, supplements, genetic testing, lab testing, or health-related care.