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Fast Facts


  • Arthritis affects an estimated 40 million people, including 80% of those age 50 and older.
  • There are more than 100 forms of arthritis.
  • The word "arthritis," coined by 19th century physicist Sir Archibald Gerrod of London, is translated literally as "fire in the joints."
  • The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis, affecting 15 to 20 million Americans. Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, occurs when the cartilage that forms a smooth lining in a joint starts to peel and flake. The underlying bone thickens and distorts. Swelling and pain occur.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis is another common form of the disease, affecting eight to 10 million Americans, the majority of them women. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the body's immune system goes awry and causes inflammation and deterioration in the joints.
  • Rheumatologists are doctors who specialize in the treatment of arthritis.