WHEREAS, Arthritis encompasses more than 100 diseases and conditions that affect the joints, tissues surrounding the joints, and other organs; and
     WHEREAS, The most common forms of arthritis include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, gout, psoriatic arthritis, and lupus; and
     WHEREAS, Over 50 million American adults, including 1.3 million in Washington, live with the pain and limitations of some form of the disease; and
     WHEREAS, Nearly 300,000 American children, including 6,100 children in Washington, live with arthritis; and
     WHEREAS, Arthritis is our nation's leading cause of disability and a principal driver of health care costs; and
     WHEREAS, Early diagnosis and appropriate management can help people with arthritis decrease pain, improve function, stay productive, and lower health care costs; and
     WHEREAS, The federal government recognizes May as Arthritis Awareness Month;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That Arthritis Awareness Month is an opportunity to increase awareness of the disease and recognize the importance of seeking appropriate treatment to minimize its disabling impact on daily lives.