INTERNATIONAL DAYGENERAL

World Arthritis Day

World Arthritis Day shines light on rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases that affect millions in silence. On October 12, we raise awareness, support early diagnosis, and honor the resilience of everyone living with arthritis.

OCT12

Monday, October 12Every year on October 12

days to go

Roots: Established in 1996 by Arthritis and Rheumatism International (ARI).
Also on Oct 12: Kick Butt Day · Online Bank Day · Savings Day
Hashtag: #WorldArthritisDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Move gently

Learn about gentle, joint-friendly movement like walking, swimming, or tai chi, and try one short session this week.

WITH FRIENDS

Walk at their pace

Take a friend with arthritis on a low-impact outing, at their pace. Good company is its own kind of medicine.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Spread awareness

Ask your school or employer to circulate an awareness note, or offer flexible, movement-friendly options for colleagues with joint conditions.

Plan ahead

World Arthritis Day is observed on October 12 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Mon, Oct 12this year

2027Tue, Oct 12

2028Thu, Oct 12

2029Fri, Oct 12

2030Sat, Oct 12

2031Sun, Oct 12

2032Tue, Oct 12

2033Wed, Oct 12

2034Thu, Oct 12

2035Fri, Oct 12

2036Sun, Oct 12

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Fast facts

More than 200Different rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases exist.

They affect an estimated 120 million people in Europe alone.

The story

World Arthritis Day was established in 1996 by Arthritis and Rheumatism International to raise awareness in all audiences across the world of the existence and impact of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. The day is supported and managed by EULAR, the European League Against Rheumatism.

Read the full story

The debilitating effects of these diseases are little known, yet their impact is largely and silently felt. Pain is a prominent feature, and it limits work, movement, and quality of life. Arthritis is not only a condition of older people: children and teenagers live with it too, and early diagnosis with timely treatment changes outcomes.

Each year's observance carries a theme of hope, from 'It's in your hands, take action' to the power of dreams that inspire people living with these diseases to move forward. The day reminds patients, caregivers, families, and the public that awareness, exercise, and community support keep people going.