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National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion
Arthritis
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Contact Information:

National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion

Division of Adult and Community Health
Health Care and Aging Studies Branch

Arthritis Program
Mailstop K-51
4770 Buford Highway NE
Atlanta, GA 30341-3724
Phone: 770.488.5464
Fax: 770.488.5964
Email Us



 


Arthritis Basics


Arthritis Topics

bullet Arthritis Types — Overview
bullet Management
bullet Risk Factors
bullet Key Public Health Messages
bullet Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

See Also:
bullet Quick Stats
bullet Arthritis: At A Glance


Risk Factors

Certain factors have been shown to be associated with a greater risk of arthritis. Some of these risk factors are modifiable while others are not.

Non-modifiable risk factors

  • Age: The risk of developing most types of arthritis increases with age.
  • Gender: Most types of arthritis are more common in women; 60% of all people with arthritis are women.  Gout is more common in men.
  • Genetic: Specific genes are associated with a higher risk of certain types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematous (SLE), and ankylosing spondylitis.

Modifiable risk factors

  • Overweight and Obesity: Excess weight can contribute to both the onset and progression of knee osteoarthritis.
  • Joint Injuries: Damage to a joint can contribute to the development of osteoarthritis in that joint.
  • Infection: Many microbial agents can infect joints and potentially cause the development of various forms of arthritis.
  • Occupation: Certain occupations involving repetitive knee bending and squatting are associated with osteoarthritis of the knee.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Page last reviewed: June 8, 2008
Page last modified: May 24, 2007
Content Source: Division of Adult and Community Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion





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