Which sex is more commonly affected by rheumatoid arthritis?

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Rheumatoid arthritis demonstrates a marked sex difference; females are affected more commonly than males. Epidemiologic data show a female-to-male prevalence roughly two to three times higher in women. The condition often begins in middle age but can occur at any adult age. The female predominance is thought to reflect a combination of genetic susceptibility and hormonal influences that modulate immune function, with estrogen likely playing a role, along with environmental triggers. Therefore, the best answer is that women are more commonly affected. While men can develop RA, and the disease can occur in both sexes, the higher prevalence in women is well established, making the other options inaccurate.