WHEREAS, The success of our nation depends upon a population that is healthy, reasonably free of pain, and functionally independent throughout the lifespan; and

WHEREAS, Arthritis includes more than 100 diseases and conditions affecting joints and connective tissues, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, and gout; and

WHEREAS, Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States, and is associated with poorer physical health and poorer mental health; and

WHEREAS, An estimated 27 percent of Californians have some form of arthritis; and

WHEREAS, Arthritis costs California nearly $32 billion each year, with an estimated $23.2 billion spent on direct medical care, and $8.3 billion due to lost wages; and

WHEREAS, A disproportionate number of older Californians, or an estimated 44 percent of adults over 65 years of age, are affected by arthritis; and

WHEREAS, Arthritis is not necessarily an inevitable part of the aging process; rather, effective methods exist to prevent, delay the onset of, and manage the symptoms of, arthritis; now, therefore, be it