Arthritis facts and figures
- The word arthritis comes from Greek, and literally means inflammation of the joint.
- There are more than 150 types of arthritis — the most common is osteoarthritis.
- Arthritis or some other form of musculo-skeletal disease is experienced on a long-term basis by more than 4,500,000 Australians.
- Arthritis Victoria estimates that 15,000 new cases of rheumatoid arthritis are diagnosed annually.
- Juvenile arthritis affects one in 1000 children throughout the world.
- The Garvan Institute of Medical Research estimates that arthritis costs the Australian community more than $3 billion annually.
- You have a one in 5 chance of experiencing some form of rheumatic disease, such as arthritis, during your lifetime, no matter what your age.
- Half of the Australians affected by arthritis or other musculo-skeletal conditions are under the age of 60.
- Some form of arthritis is experienced by 45 per cent of Australians over 70.
- Rheumatoid arthritis is 3 times as common in women than in men.
- Arthritis and other musculo-skeletal conditions are the fourth most common reason for workplace absenteeism in Australia: 10.7 per cent of the workforce is affected by arthritis.
- Arthritis and osteoporosis account for nearly a quarter of GP consultations in Australia, and 29 per cent of visits to specialists.
Last Reviewed: 26 February 2001
- 1. Arthritis Victoria
2. Garvan Institute
3. Arthritis Foundation NSW
4. Arthritis Foundation of Australia
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Arthritis basics
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