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Living in a sunnier climate may reduce the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, according to US researchers. Their study of more than 200,000 women, published in the journal Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, suggested a link between sunlight and the risk of developing the disease. They speculated that vitamin D, which is produced in sunlight, may protect the body. Experts warned that people should not spend all day in the sun. Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by the body's own immune system attacking the joints and it can be intensely painful. It is more common in women, but the reason why a patient's own defences turn against them is unknown.