World Arthritis Day [12th October]

On 12th October every year, World Arthritis Day is celebrated to spread awareness about arthritis disease. According to a report, around 350 million people suffer from arthritis globally, with every 1 in 4 people suffering from it in the US alone. World Arthritis Day aims to spread awareness about the disease's types, causes, and impact and the measures one can take to prevent it.

Although the disease is common, most people still do not understand what arthritis is and wrongly associate it with a disease that only affects the elderly. On World Arthritis Day, such misconceptions are challenged, and people are rightly educated. Know more about the history and significance of this day here.

World Arthritis Day 2023

World Arthritis Day is celebrated annually around the world. This year, it will be celebrated on Thursday, 12th October. Arthritis Day was an initiative of the Arthritis and Rheumatism International (ARI) to spread awareness about the types of arthritis, their impact, and prevention. Here is an overview of this day:

World Arthritis Day 2022 Theme

The theme for World Arthritis Day 2022 is "It's in your hands; take action." This theme aims to help individuals realize their responsibility in educating themselves about the disease and taking preventive measures. Even though arthritis is very common, people still neglect its early symptoms because of a lack of knowledge.

With the right knowledge about the types of arthritis and the preventive measures, one can relieve themselves of the pain and discomfort that comes from the disease. Therefore, World Arthritis Day is celebrated to spread the word about this disease.

What is Arthritis?

The loose translation of arthritis is inflammation of the joints. There are many different types of arthritis which all cause pain, swelling, and stiffness of the joints and connective tissues around the joints. Here is some more information about this disease -

• Symptoms of arthritis - stiffness of the joints, swelling, pain, and reduced movement.
• Types of arthritis - Rheumatoid arthritis, Osteoarthritis, Lupus erythematosus, Childhood arthritis, Gout, Psoriatic arthritis, Spondyloarthropathies, Infectious and reactive arthritis.
• Preventive Measures - Exercise regularly, stretch your body by focusing especially on the joints, eat healthily, control blood sugar levels, and quit smoking.

History of World Arthritis Day

Arthritis and Rheumatism International (ARI) initiated the observance of World Arthritis Day after realizing the importance of educating people about this widespread disease. This day was first observed in 1996. Arthritis impacts the patient's quality of life, sometimes rendering them incapable of movement because of the stiffening of the joints.

The aim of Arthritis Day is to raise awareness about all rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs). As arthritis remains to be one of the most prevalent diseases in the world, occasions like World Arthritis Day can bring relief to those who suffer from the disease.

Significance of World Arthritis Day

Arthritis is one of the most prevalent diseases in the world, affecting around 350 million people globally. Therefore, observing World Arthritis Day is important as it can be an occasion where the disease and its effects are highlighted. Here are some other reasons why World Arthritis Day is significant:

• People get a chance to learn more about the disease by participating in talks, discussions, etc.
• People suffering from the disease feel validated, seen, and supported by a global recognition of their condition.
• The caregivers of arthritis patients receive access to knowledge about how to care better. They also receive support and validity from the worldwide community.
• Highlighting the widespread effect of this disease can lead to people following precautionary measures and improving their lifestyles to avoid the disease.
• On World Arthritis Day, misconceptions about the disease are also busted.

World Arthritis Day Activities

If you are wondering how to observe World Arthritis Day, here are some ideas for you:

• Attend your local talks/discussion events about arthritis.
• Donate to NGOs that support arthritis patients.
• Become a better caregiver by educating yourself more about the disease.
• Spread awareness about the disease and about its prevention.
• Offer support to those dealing with the disease.

FAQs on World Arthritis Day

Q1. When is World Arthritis Day celebrated?

World Arthritis Day is observed on 12th October every year. This day is observed on a global level to educate people about arthritis and its types. People engage in discussions about the types of arthritis, how it can impact your life, and its early signs and symptoms.

Q2. What is the World Arthritis Day 2022 theme?

World Arthritis Day 2022 theme is "It's in your hands; take action." The theme encourages individuals to realize their own responsibility to prevent arthritis from affecting them. Every year, a new theme for World Arthritis Day is announced and all the celebrations are done on the same theme.

Q3. Why is World Arthritis Day celebrated?

Arthritis is a common and deadly diseases that affects roughly 350 million people around the globe. World Arthritis Day is celebrated to educate people about the disease so that they can take preventive measures, or handle the disease better if they are already suffering from it.

Q4. How can I celebrate World Arthritis Day?

To celebrate World Arthritis Day, you can donate to your nearest NGO that supports arthritis patients, you can educate yourself and others about the symptoms, impact, and seriousness of this disease, and you can participate in discussions relating to the disease.

Q5. Is Arthritis a dangerous disease?

Arthritis can be a dangerous disease. It stiffens the joints and restricts movement, which can lead to pain and discomfort for the patient. If arthritis is left untreated, it can turn fatal and can even lead to death. To spread awareness about this disease, World Arthritis Day is celebrated every year on 12th October.