An estimated 46 million U.S. adults (about 1 in 5) reported doctor-diagnosed arthritis, according to annual estimates from combined 2003�2005 data. As the U.S. population ages, these numbers are likely to increase sharply. The number of adults with doctor-diagnosed arthritis is projected to increase to 67 million by 2030, and a good proportion of U.S. adults will have limited activity as a result.

Arthritis is the nation�s most common cause of disability. Nearly 19 million U.S. adults reported activity limitations because of arthritis each year during 2003�2005.

Among adults of working age (18�64 years), work limitations attributable to arthritis affect about 1 in 20 adults in the general population.

Each year, arthritis results in 750,000 hospitalizations and 36 million outpatient visits.