What Is Giant Cell Arteritis?
9. Ethnicity and Gender
Some medical conditions can happen to just about anyone. Others seem to have a genetic component that makes specific groups of people more likely to be afflicted. With GCA, there does indeed seem to be a genetic predisposition. While the disorder can arise in any race, it does seem more prevalent amongst people of Scandinavian descent or from Northern Europe.
The condition can run in some families, making it important to be aware of family medical history. The overall majority of sufferers also tend to be over the age of 50 years. However, the average onset can be as late as 72 years of age. More women than men are diagnosed with this condition. As much as 2 to 3 times more women can suffer the condition in some places.
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