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.