WHEREAS, Arthritis includes more than 100 rheumatic diseases and conditions that affect joints, tissues surrounding joints, and other connective tissues; and

WHEREAS, Arthritis is a chronic health condition and the leading cause of physical disability among adults in the United States, and it is especially common among people with multiple chronic conditions; and

WHEREAS, More than 634,000 adults in Washington state experience activity limitations caused by arthritis; and

WHEREAS, Arthritis causes pain and loss of movement, can limit everyday activities such as walking and dressing, and can contribute to serious health complications; and

WHEREAS, Arthritis affects an estimated 54 million American adults, representing approximately 24.1 percent of adults nationwide and 22.9 percent of adults in Washington state; and

WHEREAS, An estimated 300,000 children under the age of 18 in the United States live with arthritis or other rheumatic conditions, representing approximately one in every 250 children; and

WHEREAS, Arthritis costs the United States economy more than $304 billion annually, including $140 billion in direct medical costs and $164 billion in lost wages; and

WHEREAS, More than 1.25 million Washington residents, including children and adults, live with arthritis; and

WHEREAS, Nationally, 30.5 percent of adults with diabetes and 36.5 percent of adults with cardiovascular disease also have arthritis; and

WHEREAS, Among working age adults with arthritis in Washington state, approximately 38.8 percent experience work limitations due to their condition; and

WHEREAS, One out of every three United States veterans lives with arthritis, making it the leading cause of disability among veterans, with veterans accounting for approximately 17.6 percent of adults living with arthritis in Washington state; and

WHEREAS, Research supporting improved prevention strategies, interventions, and treatments is critical to reducing the burden of arthritis and improving quality of life for those affected; and

WHEREAS, The month of May was federally designated as National Arthritis Month in 1972;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the State of Washington recognizes the significant physical, economic, and social impact of arthritis on individuals, families, and communities throughout the state; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives recognizes the month of May as Arthritis Awareness Month and acknowledges the efforts of organizations working to improve access to care, education, and support for people living with arthritis.