What is arthritis?
Arthritis encompasses more than 100 disease and conditions that affect joints, the surrounding tissues, and other connective tissues. According to the National Arthritis Foundation, arthritis affects nearly one of every six Americans, making it one of the most common diseases in the United States. By the year 2020, an estimated 60 million people will be affected. While all Americans are at risk of arthritis, the prevalence of this disease is higher among women than men. In addition, arthritis is the leading cause of disability, limiting daily activities for more than 7 million citizens.
Arthritis encompasses more than 100 disease and conditions that affect joints, the surrounding tissues, and other connective tissues. According to the National Arthritis Foundation, arthritis affects nearly one of every six Americans, making it one of the most common diseases in the United States. By the year 2020, an estimated 60 million people will be affected. While all Americans are at risk of arthritis, the prevalence of this disease if higher among women than men. In addition, arthritis is the leading cause of disability, limiting daily activities for more than 7million citizens.
The term arthritis is used to refer to more than 100 related diseases, known as rheumatic diseases. This group includes diseases that affect: joints, bones, and supporting tissue such as bursa, tendons, muscles, ligaments. Arthritis causes pain and loss of movement. Some types of arthritis can harm other parts of the body including: internal organs (heart, lungs, and kidneys) and the skin.
