Autoimmune condition
Life expectancy with rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition causing joint inflammation, with effects that can extend to the cardiovascular system.
What the research suggests
Rheumatoid arthritis has been associated with a modest reduction in average life expectancy, largely through increased cardiovascular risk. Modern treatments that control inflammation early appear to reduce this gap, so well-managed disease today likely carries less risk than older figures suggest.
What changes the outlook
Early, effective control of inflammation and attention to cardiovascular risk are the main levers.
What helps
- Early effective treatment to control inflammation
- Cardiovascular risk management
- Staying active
- Not smoking
Estimate your own range
Answer around a dozen short questions and get a five-year age range based on your profile. It takes about two minutes.
Start the estimatorCommon questions
Does rheumatoid arthritis reduce life expectancy?
Rheumatoid arthritis has been associated with a modest reduction in average life expectancy, largely through increased cardiovascular risk. Modern treatments that control inflammation early appear to reduce this gap, so well-managed disease today likely carries less risk than older figures suggest.
What improves the outlook with rheumatoid arthritis?
Early, effective control of inflammation and attention to cardiovascular risk are the main levers.
Can I get a personal estimate?
This tool gives a statistical estimate as a five-year range based on your overall profile, including rheumatoid arthritis alongside your other answers. It is not a prediction. For personal medical guidance, speak to a GP or specialist.