What Is Arthritis

Arthritis isn’t just one disease—it’s a catch-all term for over 100 different joint conditions. The most common types are:

• Osteoarthritis (OA): Wear-and-tear damage over time, usually in knees, hips, hands, or spine.
• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): An autoimmune condition where your body attacks healthy joint tissue.
• Gout: A form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid, often affecting the big toe.
  

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 58 million adults in the U.S. live with some form of arthritis—that’s 1 in 4 people. 

Latinx communities are disproportionately affected. Research shows Hispanic adults are less likely to be diagnosed with arthritis, but when they are, they often report more severe symptoms and limitations in daily activities. 

Why? The reasons are familiar: barriers to healthcare, cultural stigma around pain, and a tendency to “aguantar” (put up with it) instead of seeking treatment.