Wisconsin Arthritis Program

Arthritis generally refers to more than a hundred diseases and conditions affecting the joints, surrounding tissues and connective tissues that cause pain, stiffness and swelling.  These diseases and conditions include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, fibromyalgia, bursitis, and rheumatic fever.

Arthritis is the leading cause of disability limiting major activities (working, athletic pursuits, household chores, personal care), and is second only to cardiovascular disease as a cause of work disability.  Arthritis and associated conditions also limit the quality of life of affected individuals and their families.  The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that physical activity and weight control as a means of managing arthritis related pain. 

The Department's Arthritis Program partners with the Arthritis Foundation-Wisconsin Chapter, the Milwaukee Area Health Education Center, and a variety of other institutions and community organizations to focus on primary and secondary prevention of arthritis.  The program's three main strategies are: 

1. surveillance, epidemiology and evaluation, 

2. public awareness and communication and 

3. programs, policies and systems approaches. 

To learn more about arthritis in Wisconsin, visit one of the following links:

• Program Activities

  • "Buenos Días, Artritis" -- Spanish language campaign materials

• Statistics

• Publications 

• Links

Contact us if you would like more information.

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Last Revised: October 24, 2008