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Research Paper Arthritis

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Arthritis is a collective term that refers to multiple diseases that cause joint inflammation. There are more than 100 such diseases, which makes arthritis the most common cause of disability in US seniors. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are more than 54 million American adults with arthritis. Without treatment, individuals with arthritis can lose their mobility and may find it difficult to perform basic daily tasks. While there are many types of arthritis, most tend to fall into two categories: Degenerative Osteoarthritis This condition is often referred to simply as “osteoarthritis.” It is a disorder that is characterized by damage to a joint's cartilage and surrounding tissues. Other terms for osteoarthritis …show more content…

The types of arthritis under this classification involve the immune system. When an individual has inflammatory arthritis, their body's defense mechanism is attacking their own tissue. The result can be damaged and deformed joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is one form of inflammatory arthritis. According to the Rheumatoid Arthritis Support Network, there are over 1.3 million Americans with this disease. The severity of the symptoms varies between individuals, with some having mild symptoms and others having severe pain. The initial symptoms are usually mild but can progress over time. If the condition is diagnosed and treated early, it may be possible to limit the damage. Preventive Tips Researchers have not discovered what causes some people to develop rheumatoid arthritis but believe that the risk involves a combination of internal and external factors. While it is not possible to change a person’s genetics, it may be possible to reduce the risk associated with other potential causes. You can reduce your risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis by following these tips: • Stop Smoking Smoking is one potential cause. The CDC states that smoking can more than double your risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. Smoking is one of the few risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis that is entirely within your

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