Reginia Dodson | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an auto immune disease, which, indicates that the immune system is attacking healthy cells. This causes inflammation and pain. Rheumatoid arthritis, predominantly attacks the joints, however, many joints can be attacked simultaneously. RA commonly affects knees, wrist, and hands. RA causes damage to joint tissue, and long, lasting chronic pain, loss of balance, and deformity. RA can also affect other tissues in the body such as eyes, heart, and lungs.

What causes rheumatoid arthritis? The specific causes unknown, but the CDC states that there are factors that can increase the risk. There are a can begin at any age, the onset is highest among adults in their 60s. Gender can also impact the risk of RA, as women or 2 to 3 times higher to report RA than men. Genetics play a role as well, “genes, called HLA (human leukocyte antigen) class II genotypes, can also make your arthritis worse.” (CDC, 2020).

Other factors that increase risk include as can smoking and obesity, “Studies examining the role of obesity also found that the more overweight a person was, the higher his or her risk of developing RA became.” (CDC, 2020). There are factors within our control, and some factors outside of our control but it is important to do what you can to reduce the risk, especially if you have a family history of RA.

Though rheumatoid arthritis cannot be cured, it’s important to discuss options with your doctor if you begin showing signs or symptoms.

References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020b, July 27). Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/rheumatoid-arthritis.html