Did you know...

Arthritis hurts someone you know. 

• Nearly 50 million Americans (I in 5 people) have been diagnosed with arthritis by a doctor.
• Nearly 300,000 children under the age of 17 are affected by juvenile arthritis.
• Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States.
• Arthritis prevalence increases with age. Among adults over age 65, the prevalence of arthritis is 48%.

No one is immune to this disease. 

• Arthritis affects every racial and ethnic group including more than 34 million Caucasians, more than 4.6 million African-Americans and nearly 3.1 million Hispanics.

• The term "arthritis" encompasses more than 100 diseases and conditions that affect joints, the surrounding tissues and other connective tissues. Arthritis can cause mild to severe pain in the joints, as well as joint tenderness and swelling.

• The various forms of arthritis and related conditions can affect anyone, no matter what your race, gender or age.

• Arthritis affects women at a much higher rate than men. Sixty percent of all people who have arthritis are female, and several of the more common forms are more prevalent in women.

The cost to the economy is staggering.

Each year, arthritis results in:

• 39 million physician visits
• 744,000 hospitalizations
• 3 million visits to outpatient departments
• 2.2 million visits to emergency departments
• $128 billion in costs of treatment, lost wages and other associated costs

But the cost to American families is even worse. 

• Arthritis is a more frequent cause of activity limitation than heart disease, cancer or diabetes.
• Pain, fatigue, and inflammation can limit everyday activities, from simple tasks, like bathing and dressing, to the ability to maintain employment or live independently.
• Caring for a family member with a prolonged or chronic illness is stressful and draining -- mentally, physically, emotionally, and financially.

The Arthritis Foundation helps.

The Arthritis Foundation is the largest private, not-for-profit contributor to arthritis in the world, funding more than $380 million in research grants since 1948. Through the support of more than 600,000 volunteers, the foundation helps individuals take control of arthritis by providing public health education; pursuing public policy and legislation; and conducting evidence-based programs to improve the quality of life for those living with arthritis. Information is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-568-4045 or www.arthritis.org.