World Arthritis Day is observed on 12 October every year with the aim to increase awareness about arthritis in all its forms among the various sections of the population. Raising awareness of arthritis and the problems it causes is the first step towards influencing decision makers to become aware of the problems caused by arthritis and the steps that may be taken to tackle it. Awareness among patients enables them to learn what support services are available to them.

These conditions may vary from self-limiting minor problems that cause temporary pain and limitation of movement, to severe, chronic and sometimes lifelong conditions that may at times be life-threatening. Anybody can suffer from arthritis - men, women, young people, including children, and the elderly. Arthritis is much commoner in the elderly than in any other age group and, with an increasing elderly population, the incidence of arthritis is bound to increase significantly.

Triggers for Arthritis

The effects of arthritis include pain and inability to make use of the affected parts of the body. Thus, for example, patients who have arthritis in their hips or knees will find it difficult to stand and walk.

Common Forms of Arthritis

Although arthritis is common and has severe effects on the lives of patients, it has not been given due importance. The reason is that for a long time it was mistakenly believed that arthritis was a normal consequence of ageing and that there was nothing to do about it.

Different Forms of Treatment

The World Health Organisation has arthritis as a major health problem and has been instrumental in establishing 12 October as World Arthritis Day. This event has been widely observed throughout many countries since 2004. A theme is chosen for each year`s World Arthritis Day. This year the theme is `Let`s Work Together`.

This theme considers the challenges of work, whether it is paid employment, voluntary work or work in the form of supporting a family, and encompasses people with rheumatic diseases, healthcare professionals and employers.

Text courtesy: www.cdc.gov

Image: Wikimedia Commons