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World Arthritis Day
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SatOct 12

World Arthritis Day – October 12, 2024

World Arthritis Day is celebrated on October 12 every year. The day is designed to raise global awareness about the plurality of Arthritis. Doctors and well-wishers try to raise awareness through activities and awareness campaigns. Discussions are held regarding the symptoms connected to arthritis and the importance of early diagnosis. Patients are also told of the ways to gain access to proper medical treatment. Among the different types of arthritis are ankylosing spondylitis, gout, lupus, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. With timely medical intervention, patients can lead a comfortable life.

History of World Arthritis Day

World Arthritis Day was brought about by the Arthritis Foundation. Arthritis is derived from the Greek words ‘arthro,’ meaning ‘joint,’ and ‘itis,’ meaning ‘inflammation.’ Arthritis is a condition involving inflammation of the joints. It can affect any living thing that has bones. Evidence shows that ankle arthritis was present in dinosaurs and that it has been present in humans for at least as far back as 4500 B.C.! In fact, it was one of the most common afflictions of prehistoric peoples. It was first closely examined and classified in William Musgrave’s work “De Arthritide Symptomatica,” written in 1715.

For conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, there is no cure, although regular exercise and weight reduction can suppress the effects. There is, of course, a pharmaceutical aid that focuses on reducing the pain of the condition rather than seeking to remove it; physical therapy also helps. For a person suffering from arthritis, movement becomes difficult. Yet they must exercise and keep their joints mobile, to reduce inflammation, which has shown marked improvements in the long-term relief of the pain associated with it.

Many associate arthritis with the elderly and the health concerns that affect them. This is mostly correct, as statistical evidence shows that those over 65 are in fact the primary sufferers. But 30% of all sufferers are under the age of 65, with some of them being teenagers and, though rarely, infants.

World Arthritis Day timeline

4500 B.C.
First Mention of Arthritis

Reference to arthritis is found in texts at least as far back as 4500 B.C.

123 A.D.
References to Rheumatoid Arthritis

A text dating back to 123 A.D. first describes symptoms that appear similar to rheumatoid arthritis.

1591
First Formal Evidence

French physician Guillaume de Baillou applies the age-old term 'rheumatism' to a condition characterized by swelling, stiffness, and pain.

1852
Rheumatoid Arthritis is Differentiated from Osteoarthritis

Sir Alfred Garrod renames rheumatoid arthritis, defining it as separate from osteoarthritis.

World Arthritis Day FAQs

Is it good to walk with arthritis?

Walking is good therapy for arthritis; it helps in weight loss. 

What really causes arthritis?

 Injury, abnormal metabolism, genetic makeup, infections, and immune system dysfunction are common causes of arthritis.  Treatment involves medications, physical therapies,  patient education, and support. 

How can you avoid getting arthritis?

You can reduce the risk of getting arthritis by: 

  1.  Maintaining a healthy weight
  2.  Controlling your blood sugar 
  3.  Exercising
  4.  Stretching 
  5.  Avoiding injury

How To Observe World Arthritis Day

  1. Raise awareness

    Find out how arthritis affects people, and learn about how you can help patients. Pledge to help out an arthritis patient whenever you can.

  2. Take care of yourself

    Although arthritis isn’t entirely preventable, it can be controlled with regular exercise and a proper diet. On World Arthritis Day, resolve to take care of your health.

  3. Prepare yourself

    You can also head over to the Arthritis Foundation's website and take their test to find out if you’re at risk of osteoarthritis. This will get you early treatment and preparation.

5 Important Facts About Arthritis

  1. There are some unique treatments

    The venom left from a bee sting may reduce the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

  2. Animals suffer from it too

    Any creature with bones is at risk of suffering from arthritis.

  3. Injuries may lead to arthritis

    Young adults with injuries are six times more likely to develop osteoarthritis.

  4. Children may have arthritis too

    Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is the most common type of arthritis among children.

  5. Climate can’t cure it

    Contrary to popular belief, a warmer climate does not relieve arthritis.

Why World Arthritis Day Is Important

  1. Creates awareness

    The main focus of World Arthritis Day is to raise awareness of the disease. Increased awareness means more people are able to recognize their condition and avail themselves of treatment.

  2. Creates a community

    World Arthritis Day is also an opportunity for patients, families, and caregivers to come together and share their experiences. This creates a sense of belonging.

  3. Celebrates progress

    Research on new treatments and medicines for arthritis is always ongoing. And the day celebrates arthritis patients and medical science’s progress toward defeating the disease.

World Arthritis Day dates

YearDateDay
2024October 12Saturday
2025October 12Sunday
2026October 12Monday
2027October 12Tuesday
2028October 12Thursday

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