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Find basic statistics about arthritis, such as prevalence, disabilities and limitations, quality of life, and costs. Learn more about Arthritis-Related Statistics.
Arthritis Overview
- Arthritis affects about 1 in 4 adults in the United States, or more than 58 million people. The majority of adults with arthritis are working age.
- There are many types of arthritis— including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, lupus, and fibromyalgia— that affect joints, the tissue that surrounds joints, and other connective tissue.
- The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which affects over 30 million US adults.
- Arthritis is a major cause of work disability among US adults.
Impact of Arthritis
- By 2040, an estimated 1 in 4 US adults (78.4 million), including many working age adults, will have arthritis, creating substantial challenges for the workforce and health care systems.
- Many people with arthritis are limited from undertaking life activities. In fact, 25.7 million adults have arthritis and arthritis-attributable activity limitation.
- Arthritis is common among people with multiple chronic conditions. For example, among people with heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, the prevalence of arthritis was 49%, 47%, and 31%, respectively.
- Arthritis makes it more challenging to manage other conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or obesity, since people with arthritis are less likely to be physically active, and physical activity is an important management technique for chronic conditions.
Simple Ways to Manage Arthritis
Taking just a few simple, natural steps can help keep pain away:
- Learn arthritis management strategies.
- Be active.
- Watch your weight.
- See your doctor.
- Protect your joints.
Learn more about these 5 proven ways to manage arthritis.
