According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), arthritis affects 1 in 5, or 46 million, US adults, making it one of the most common chronic conditions. Over 40%, or nearly 19 million, adults with arthritis are limited in their activities because of their arthritis. Increasing physical activity, losing excess weight, and participating in self-management education classes have been shown to reduce pain, improve functional limitations and mental health, and reduce disability among persons with arthritis.
Other CDC facts.
Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States. Nearly 19 million adults say that arthritis limits their usual activities in some way.
8.2 million working aged U.S. adults (about 1 in 20) report work limitations due to arthritis or joint symptoms.
Blacks with arthritis have more activity limitation than whites. Blacks and Hispanics with arthritis have more work limitation and severe joint pain from arthritis than whites.
