Chandigarh, October 12, 2025: Arthritis, a condition causing inflammation in one or more joints, affects millions worldwide every year. Yet, it remains one of the most neglected and misunderstood disorders, often mistaken as a natural part of ageing, leading to delayed diagnosis and avoidable suffering.

Observed globally on October 12, World Arthritis Day aims to raise awareness about the condition and its impact. This year’s theme, “Achieve Your Dreams,” celebrates the resilience of people living with Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal Diseases (RMDs) and the importance of empowering them to lead fulfilling lives.

On this occasion, Dr. Anil Abrol, Consultant, Department of Rheumatology, Fortis Hospital Mohali, shared insights on the causes, symptoms, risks, and treatment options related to arthritis.

Understanding Arthritis:

Arthritis is not a single disease, but a group of over 100 disorders affecting joints, bones, and connective tissues. These include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, lupus, vasculitis, gout and psoriatic arthritis.

Dr. Abrol explained, “Arthritis can affect people of any age group, including children, young adults, and the middle-aged population and it’s a misconception that only the elderly suffer from it. Ignoring the symptoms or attributing them to age can be dangerous. The longer one waits, the more difficult it becomes to control inflammation, prevent complications, and avoid irreversible joint damage. Early medical attention is therefore critical to improving long-term outcomes.”