**Core Concept**
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by **inflammatory polyarthritis**, affecting multiple joints and leading to significant morbidity. The disease primarily involves the **synovial joints**, with a predilection for **peripheral joints** such as hands and feet.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer involves understanding the typical joint distribution in RA, which indeed has a higher propensity to affect **peripheral joints** more commonly than **axial joints**. This is due to the **synovial inflammation** and **autoimmune response** targeting the peripheral joints.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option B:** RA does decrease life expectancy due to increased risk of cardiovascular disease and other systemic complications.
**Option C:** While vasculitis can be associated with RA, it is not the most characteristic feature.
**Option D:** Adrenal hyperplasia is not directly related to RA pathophysiology.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that RA is a **systemic disease** with potential **extra-articular manifestations**, including cardiovascular, pulmonary, and ocular complications.

**Correct Answer:** A. Involves peripheral joints more commonly than axial joints