5 Things Every Black Adult Should Know About RA

RA got you feeling down, heavy, and filled with pain? Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) isn’t just about achy joints. It’s an inflammatory condition that affects the whole body, and it’s crucial to understand this distinction. For Black adults, who face unique challenges with RA, knowing the ins and outs of the condition can make a big difference in managing it effectively.  In fact, one study in Arthritis and Rheumatology found that for every 100 white Americans with RA, 138 Black Americans have the condition.  Again, RA isn’t simply a “joint disease.” It’s an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, causing inflammation throughout the body. This inflammation can affect joints and organs like the heart, lungs, and blood vessels.  Suffering from RA, but not sure how to manage it? Here are five key things every Black patient with the disease should know… 1. Don’t Forget Your Teeth! Believe it or not, your oral health can affect your RA. Research suggests a connection between gum disease and RA, with inflammation in the gums potentially worsening RA symptoms and vice versa. One study found that individuals with gum disease had a higher risk of developing RA than those...