Nariman Malik, BSc
Medical Writer,
Geriatrics & Aging.

Arthritis is a common condition, with over four million Canadians of all ages suffering from some form of the disease. In fact, arthritis is one of the top three chronic conditions in Canada. To date, there are over 100 different conditions that can be classified as forms of arthritis. It is predicted that the number of people with arthritis will increase at a rate of one million people every ten years. It is a debilitating disease that is affecting a large proportion of Canada's aging population. As such, it is an important health issue encountered by primary care physicians on a daily basis.

The Arthritis Society, established in 1948, is Canada's only not-for-profit organization dedicated to funding and promoting arthritis research and care. The Arthritis Society is involved in raising funds for arthritis research, as well as offering a wide range of programs and services to help individuals living with arthritis. The national office is located in Toronto. There are division offices in each province and nearly 1,000 community branches throughout Canada. This article outlines programs and services that are available through The Arthritis Society and are ideal for patients living with arthritis.

1-800- Information Line
In 1992, The Arthritis Society launched its 1-800- Information Line. It is a toll free support and information line run by trained volunteers or staff.