How Common Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder. In addition to causing deterioration of the joints, it can cause complications of many of the body's organs, including the liver, kidneys and digestive tract. Rheumatoid arthritis can strike at any age, even affecting children. It's a chronic disease that can't be cured.

Numbers

The Arthritis Foundation is a nonprofit organization that studies arthritic diseases and helps their sufferers cope. It estimates that there are more than 1 million people in the United States who have rheumatoid arthritis.

Women

Rheumatoid arthritis is much more common among women. They suffer from it two to three times more than men.

Genetics

It has been said that arthritis runs in families. A genetic marker (HLA-DR4) has been identified in two-thirds of Caucasians who have rheumatoid arthritis.

Age

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis can strike kids as young as 6. Adults are usually diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis between 30 and 50.

Considerations

Advancements in drug therapy have made rheumatoid arthritis more manageable. Though it is still common, the quality of life for those who have it is improving with medications and therapy.