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Associations between low formal education and increased morbidity and mortality have been well established among persons with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other conditions. This study attempted to identify a partial explanation for the association between low education and poor outcomes among persons with RA by examining self-care activities performed by persons with different levels of education. Persons with [13.sup.+] yr of education were significantly more likely to perform specific self-care activities (e.g., using a heated pool, tub, shower, OR = 2.59; using relaxation methods, OR = 3.00; using stress control methods, OR = 2.41; avoiding certain foods, OR = 1.74). The association between education and performance of self-care activities was not linear. When significant differences were noted, 13 yr of education was usually the point at which performance was significantly different than among lower education groups; individuals with 12 yr of education often exhibited lower frequencies of particular behaviors than did individuals with 9-11 yr of education. The association between higher education and performance of more self-care activities may shed light on previously described associations between education and morbidity. However, low education should not be viewed as the cause of increased morbidity and mortality, but as a proxy for a constellation of factors responsible for poor health outcomes. Key words - education, self-care, health behavior, arthritis, health outcome