Overview

          The word arthritis actually means joint inflammation. The term arthritis is used to describe more than 100 rheumatic diseases and conditions that affect joints, the tissues which surround the joint and other connective tissue. The pattern, severity and location of symptoms can vary depending on the specific form of the disease. Typically, pain and stiffness in and around one or more joints characterize rheumatic conditions. The symptoms can develop gradually or suddenly. Certain rheumatic conditions can also involve the immune system and various internal organs of the body.

Arthritis: The Reality

•  Nearly 43 million Americans-about one in every five adults- have arthritis or chronic joint symptoms. As the population ages, these numbers will probably increase dramatically.
•  Arthritis is more common among older adults, but it also affects many children and young adults. In fact, 60% of people with arthritis are younger than 65.
•  Arthritis is the leading cause of disability among U.S. adults. It limits everyday activities for more than 16 million Americans.
•  Early and aggressive management of inflammatory arthritis can reduce complications and delay costly procedures like joint replacements.
•  Among adults with doctor-diagnosed arthritis, almost one third report having a work limitation attributed to arthritis.

The Cost of Arthritis

•  Each year arthritis is estimated to cost $51 billion for medical costs and an additional $35 billion for indirect costs such as lost wages (in 1997 dollars).
•  Arthritis is responsible for 750,000 hospitalizations and 36 million outpatient visits every year.
•  As the U.S. population ages, arthritis-related costs are going to soar.
•  Arthritis is responsible for 750,000 hospitalizations and 36 million outpatient visits every year.

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The information in PROFCENTRAL  is not intended as a substitute for medical professional help or advice but is to be used only as an aid in understanding medical conditions. A physician should always be consulted for back pain or any other health problem. PROFCENTRAL  provides links to other organizations as a service to our readers and is not responsible for the information, services, or products provided by these web sites, health professionals, or companies.