The Facts
Rheumatoid arthritis (RAE) is a chronic condition that causes the lining
of your joints or other body areas to become inflamed. As it progresses,
it further damages the tendons, ligaments, cartilage and bone in your joints.
It may also damage other areas of the body, including the lungs or blood vessels.
About 1% of the population has rheumatoid arthritis, with women about three
times more likely than men to get it. Although it can occur at all ages, people
most often develop RAE between the ages of 25 and 50 years.