Arthritis

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Causes

Factors that Increase Your Risk of Arthritis

  • Older age. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout are more common in older adults.
  • Being overweight or obese. Extra weight puts more stress on the joints.
  • Past joint injuries or infections.
  • Sports or repeated movements that put stress on the joints.
  • Family history. Some genes linked to the immune system increase the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Sex. Women are more likely to develop rheumatoid arthritis, while men are more likely to have gout.
  • Certain medications that can trigger gout attacks.
  • Diet and lifestyle. Eating large amounts of meat, fish, shellfish, eggs, or dairy, drinking alcohol, and consuming sugary foods or drinks can increase the risk of gout.

Black adults and people from Spanish-speaking communities are more likely to have arthritis than White adults. Social factors may limit access to healthcare and other resources that help people stay healthy.

 

Last Reviewed and Updated: October 2026 
By: AGS/HiAF Public Education Committee, HealthinAging.org Content Reviewers 

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