Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) has a strong genetic component, but there is no known way to prevent the disease. However, patients who are aware of a family history of this disease can watch for signs and symptoms. Early detection of AS provides the best chance to treat the disease before it causes irreversible damage.

In addition, patients who are diagnosed with AS can help reduce the chance of further damage by quitting smoking. Patients with AS sometimes develop stiffness in the rib cage that reduces their ability to breathe fully. Damage to the lungs caused by smoking can worsen these symptoms. Researchers have also found smoking to be a risk factor for other forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.