About us
ABOUT US
The American Arthritis Foundation is comprised of dedicated individuals who lead chapters of the American Arthritis Foundation in their local communities. The American Arthritis Foundation is primarily organized by volunteers who work together to educate the public on arthritis, arthritis prevention, and arthritis treatments to reverse damages. The American Arthritis Foundation was founded with the mission to educate the public about arthritis and help those suffering with this disability. The education mission is critical to accomplish the goal of the organization. Additionally, the American Arthritis Foundation also advocates for patients and works with federal and state governments to improve access for patients suffering with this debilitating disease.
Promoting Interventions That Reduce Arthritis Pain
American Arthritis Foundation recognizes several proven approaches to reduce arthritis symptoms:
Be active. Physical activity—such as walking, bicycling, and swimming—decreases arthritis pain and improves function, mood, and quality of life. Adults with arthritis should move more and sit less throughout the day. Getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week is recommended.
Protect your joints. People can help prevent osteoarthritis by avoiding activities that are more likely to cause joint injuries.
Talk with a doctor. Recommendations from health care providers can motivate people to be physically active and join a self-management education program. Should your arthritis be interfering with your activities of daily living you may be a candidate to receive many new treatments, and learn how to reverse the arthritis condition.
Effect of Arthritis
In the United States, 23% of all adults, or more than 54 million people, have arthritis. It is a leading cause of work disability, with annual costs for medical care and lost earnings of $303.5 billion.
Workforce Effects
Sixty percent of US adults with arthritis are of working age (18 to 64 years). Arthritis can limit the type of work they are able to do or keep them from working at all.
Global Impact
In fact, 8 million working-age adults report that their ability to work is limited because of their arthritis. For example, they may have a hard time climbing stairs or walking from a parking deck to their workplace.
23%
OF ADULTS DIAGNOSED WITH ARTHRITIS
54
MILLION PEOPLE DIAGNOSED WITH ARTHRITIS
#1
LEADING CAUSE OF DISABILITY
$303.5
BILLION SPENT ANNUALLY ON ARTHRITIS
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