Arthritis Foundation - Arthritis Info Arthritis Foundation Eastern Missouri Chapter 8390 Delmar Blvd. By the year 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention projects that arthritis prevalence will increase to Americans. In the U.S., arthritis is one of the most prevalent chronic health problems and the For nearly seven million Americans, arthritis limits everyday activities such as walking, dressing or bathing. Anyone can develop arthritis.
Arthritis costs the U.S. economy per year in medical care and lost wages.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease in which the cartilage that covers the ends of bones in the joint deteriorates, causing pain and loss of movement as bone begins to rub against bone. It is the most prevalent form of arthritis, affecting an estimated 15.8 million Americans, mostly after age 45. Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto immune disease where the joint becomes inflamed as part of the body's immune system activity. Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most serious and disabling types, affecting an estimated 2.1 million Americans. In fibromyalgia, widespread pain affects the muscles and attachments to the bone.