A risk factor is something that raises the chances of getting a health problem. A person can get rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with or without the ones listed below. The chances are greater in people who have many risk factors.
RA is more common in women. It is also more common in people who are 30 to 60 years of age. Other things that can raise the risk are:
- A family history of RA
- Having certain genes
- Having other health problems, such as obesity, periodontitis, and some bacterial and viral infections
- Smoking
- Drinking coffee
