World Arthritis Day

About World Arthritis Day

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Dates of World Arthritis Day
2027 InternationalOct 12 International Tue, Oct 12Observances Holiday 2026 InternationalOct 12 International Mon, Oct 12Observances Holiday 2025 InternationalOct 12 International Sun, Oct 12Observances Holiday 2024 InternationalOct 12 International Sat, Oct 12Observances Holiday 2023 InternationalOct 12 International Thu, Oct 12Observances Holiday
Summary
Arthritis is a disease that affects approximately 350 million people worldwide, including nearly 40 million people in the United States.

First observed in 1996, World Arthritis Day (WAD), is a global awareness day held every year on October 12th.

Established by Arthritis and Rheumatism International (ARI) and managed by the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR), the aim of World Arthritis Day is not only to raise awareness, but also to influence public policy and inform those living with RMDs as well as their caregivers of the support network available to them.

The debilitating effects of these diseases, of which more than 200 exist, are little known; their impact, however, is largely – and silently – felt.

Arthritis has a Global Impact

• According to EUMUSC.net, in a 2007 EU survey, it was found that 22% of the population currently had, or had experienced, long-term muscle, bone and joint problems such as rheumatism and arthritis.
• The prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis varies between 0.3% and 1% and is more common in women as well as in developed countries.
• Within 10 years of onset of rheumatoid arthritis, at least 50% of patients in developed countries are unable to hold down a full-time job.
• Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disorder and accounts for more disability among the elderly than any other disease.
• Many factors increase the risk of developing rheumatic disease, including increasing age, smoking, excessive weight, predisposed genetic factors, occupations with high risk of injury and overuse of joints.

All events on October 12th 2026