Most people think arthritis affects older adults, but did you know that more than half of adults with arthritis are actually younger than 65?  Arthritis affects about 1 in 4 adults in the United States.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as the population ages and obesity increases, the number of adults with arthritis is expected to increase to 78 million by 2040.

• Arthritis is the nation’s leading cause of disability.  The term is used to describe more than 100 diseases and conditions that affect joints, the tissues that surround the joint, and other connective tissue.  Arthritis is common among people with other chronic health conditions, especially obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
• Symptoms typically include pain, swelling and stiffness in and around one or more joints.  Some forms of arthritis affect the immune system and internal organs.
• Adults with arthritis in South Carolina has consistently increased from 2011 to 2016, still harboring above the national average (see Figure 6.13)
• Women in South Carolina have a higher prevalence of arthritis (33.2%) than males (26.7).
• Prevent arthritis by staying active and maintaining a healthy weight.  Early diagnosis and appropriate management of the disease can help people live well without pain.  Simple movement, such as walking, is recommended for at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week is recommended.

Take the CDC Arthritis Quiz to test your knowledge or visit https://www.cdc.gov/features/arthritisawareness/index.html to learn more about Arthritis Awareness Month.