Life with Arthritis in Canada: A personal and public health challenge

On July 19, 2010 the Public Health Agency of Canada issued an update on the first Arthritis in Canada publication. Although progress is being made on interventions to reduce the impact of arthritis on Canadians, arthritis remains common, costly, and disabling. More than 4.2 million Canadians live with one or more of the 100 conditions that comprise arthritis. It is one of the leading causes of pain and physical disability in Canada and a major public health challenge. Arthritis may affect one’s daily activities, choice of career, social participation, relationships and family life, and economic status.

Life with Arthritis in Canada: A personal and public health challenge is designed to increase public awareness that arthritis is not simply a normal part of aging and the importance of prevention and timely management. Read and download the report at:

Life With Arthritis in Canada: A Personal and Public Health Challenge

This report, Life with Arthritis in Canada: A personal and public challenge is the second national surveillance report on arthritis. Using the most recent data sources available, it provides an overview of arthritis in the Canadian population and its wide-ranging impact. It also suggests approaches for reducing the risk of developing some types of arthritis (osteoarthritis and gout) in addition to minimizing disability and improving the quality of life of those living with any type of arthritis.

In 2007-2008, over 4.2 million Canadians (16%) aged 15 years and older reported that they had arthritis. With the aging population, this number is expected to increase to approximately 7 million (20%) in 2031. Arthritis was the second and third most common chronic condition reported by women and men, respectively. Overall, nearly two-thirds (64%) of those affected with arthritis were women. Nearly three in five people with arthritis were aged under 65 years.

Arthritis can have a major impact on individuals and families, with many individuals reporting fair or poor general and mental health, needing help with daily activities in addition to limitations in work, community, social and civic life. On average, over a quarter of men and women with arthritis between 25 and 44 years of age were not in the labour force because of their arthritis.