A nurse is preparing a flyer on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) for distribution during a community health fair. The nurse includes the following facts:

Question

1. Women are three times more likely to be affected.
2. Onset generally occurs between 20 and 40 years of age.
3. Rheumatoid arthritis appears to have a genetic component.
4. Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common form of arthritis.
5. Rheumatoid arthritis typically affects weight-bearing joints.

Answer 1

1. Women are three times more likely to be affected.
2. Onset generally occurs near 20 to 40 years of age.
3. Rheumatoid arthritis appears to have a genetic component.

Rationale: Women are three times more likely to be affected. RA is noted worldwide as affecting three times more women than men. Onset generally occurs near 20 to 40 years of age. RA can occur at any age, with the peak incidence being between ages 20 and 40. Rheumatoid arthritis appears to have a genetic component. RA is thought to be an autoimmune disorder that not only involves tissue hypersensitivity but also has a genetic component. Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common form of arthritis. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis typically affects weight-bearing joints. Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic condition that accompanies aging, most commonly affecting weight-bearing joints.