In Michigan, based on 2007 Behavioral Risk Factor Survey (BRFS) data:

• Over 2.4 million adults age 18 and older reported doctor-diagnosed arthritis.
• 32% of adults reported having arthritis, the eighth highest arthritis prevalence rate in the country.
• Two-thirds of people with arthritis were younger than 65 years of age.
• Adults with arthritis were three to six times more likely to report having other chronic diseases such as diabetes, osteoporosis or cardiovascular disease than adults without arthritis.
• The estimated medical expenditures and lost earnings due to arthritis and other rheumatic conditions in 2003 were $5.6 billion.

For a brief overview of arthritis, including its impact on people and society as well as what increases risk and what helps to improve quality of life, please open the Michigan Arthritis Fact Sheet (released May 2009).

• Download Michigan Arthritis Fact Sheet