A national strategy to reduce a costly burden
What is arthritis?
Arthritis is an umbrella term for a range of conditions that affects the joints.
There are over 100 different types of arthritis affecting people of all ages including children. The most common types are osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and, in children, juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).
Osteoarthritis
OA is a degenerative joint disease that affects 1.9 million Australians. Although often referred to as “wear and tear” arthritis, OA is a disease and not an inevitable part of the ageing process.
Rheumatoid arthritis
RA is a serious, chronic, inflammatory autoimmune condition that can occur at any age. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can prevent much of the joint damage, deformity and disability associated with RA.
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis
JIA is an inflammatory autoimmune condition that affects around 5000 Australian children. If not treated quickly and appropriately, it can seriously affect the growth and development of a child, causing severe joint damage, growth abnormalities and permanent disability.
