From 1955 to 1994 rheumatoid arthritis declined in both men and women; however, since that time both the incidence and prevalence has risen. According to Mayo Clinic researchers, “Compared to the previous decade when approximately 36 women out of every 100,000 developed rheumatoid arthritis each year, the new study showed a jump to 54 women in the more recent decade….Overall, the percentage of the entire population with the condition rose from 0.85 percent to 0.95 percent. ” Unfortunately, researchers aren’t sure what is causing the increase, although they believe it has to do with “an environmental factor” yet to be identified.

If you want to learn more about rheumatoid arthritis, read What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?