World Arthritis Day 2024- Raising awareness of arthritis to help you keep safe

World Arthritis Day, often abbreviated as WAD, is observed globally to raise awareness about arthritic and rheumatic diseases, their causes, prevention, and treatment.

The day was launched in 1996 by the Arthritis and Rheumatism International (ARi) with 12 October selected as the day of observation. Many organizations conduct awareness events and programs such as seminars and workshops to celebrate WAD.

World Arthritis Day Overview

World Arthritis Day Date

Below mentioned are the upcoming dates for World Arthritis Day for the next 4 years.

World Arthritis Day Significance

Arthritis is a very common disorder of joints that can affect people of every age and gender. A large number of people in the world are affected with arthritic conditions which calls for the need to raise awareness among the general public as well as medical communities. The main focus of World Arthritis Day is to raise awareness of the disease so that people are able to identify their condition and find effective treatment for themselves. The day also aims to make decision-makers aware of the severity of arthritis and encourage them to take the necessary steps which can be taken to ease the condition.

Arthritis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Arthritis is an inflammation of the joint(s) that can cause immense pain and stiffness, making it difficult for people with the condition to move. There are different types of arthritis which have different causes, symptoms, and treatments. Although it normally affects older people, arthritis can develop in individuals of any age. The most common joints prone to arthritis are the ones in the feet, knees, hands, hips, and lower back.

It is hard to determine the exact cause of arthritis but there are certain reasons why one might be affected by it. People with a family history of arthritis or those with a job that puts repeated stress on joints have a chance that they can suffer from arthritis. Sometimes certain viral infections or autoimmune diseases can be a reason too. Factors like obesity, smoking, and reduced physical activity might also cause certain types of arthritis.

People with arthritis can feel pain, redness, swelling, and stiffness in the affected areas. Sometimes people can also observe tenderness and warmth in their joints that might indicate arthritis.

There is no cure for arthritis but certain treatments can provide relief in the condition. Some common treatments include medications to help with pain or inflammation. Therapy can also help with arthritis by modifying your daily activities to decrease arthritic pain. In severe cases of arthritis, doctors may recommend surgery for relief.

History of World Arthritis Day

World Arthritis Day was launched by Arthritis and Rheumatism International (ARi) in 1996 to draw focus on people suffering from arthritis all over the world. The first World Arthritis Day was observed on October 12, 1996, with events organized to educate people about this condition and how they can get help with it.

Check other important Days in October

About Arthritis and Rheumatism International (ARi)

Arthritis and Rheumatism International (ARi) is an association of national organizations that helps people affected by arthritis and rheumatism. It was founded in 1988 with the main aim of raising awareness of the needs of people with arthritis. The organization also works in the direction of improving the quality of life of such people and supports research to help prevent and cure this disease.

World Arthritis Day Celebration

Many events and activities are organized to educate people about arthritis and related disorders. Learn more about it and spread knowledge among your friends, family, and peers as well. You can volunteer at organizations that help people with arthritis or support them via donations of any kind.

World Arthritis Day Theme

The table below presents the theme for World Arthritis Day for the past few years. The theme for World Arthritis Day 2024 is “It’s in your Hands Take Action”.

Important Facts related to Arthritis

• Older women are found to be more susceptible to suffering from arthritis.
• Arthritis can also affect children, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis being the most common one.
• Many people believe that arthritis causes fewer problems in warm climates which is not true.
• Arthritis not only affects humans but every being with joints in their body can be affected.
• Arthritis is one of the oldest diseases, found in the remains of people living over 500,000 years ago.
• According to some researchers in Brazil, bee sting venom can reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

Frequently Asked Questions