Arthritis prevalence by age U.S.| ��ƽ��

Prevalence of doctor-diagnosed arthritis among U.S. adults from 2019 to 2024, by age

Characteristic	18 to 34 years	35 to 49 years	50 to 64 years	65 years and older
2019	3.7%	12.6%	28.9%	47.8%
2020	3.2%	11.3%	28.6%	46.9%
2021	2.7%	10.7%	29.5%	48.1%
2022	3.6%	11.5%	29%	47.9%
2023	3.6%	10.8%	28.5%	47.6%
2024	3.4%	11%	28.1%	47.8%

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Release date

February 2026

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Region

United States

Survey time period

2019 to 2024

Age group

18 years and older

Method of interview

Telephone interview

Supplementary notes

Release date represents the date figures were accessed.

Respondents were asked if they had ever been told by a doctor or other health professional that they had some form of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, lupus, or fibromyalgia. Those who answered yes were classified as having an arthritis diagnosis.

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Arthritis prevalence in the United States shows a clear correlation with age, with nearly half of adults aged 65 and older experiencing the condition in 2024. This high prevalence among older Americans highlights the significant impact of arthritis on the aging population and underscores the importance of understanding its distribution across different demographic groups.

Demographic variations in arthritis prevalence

While age is a primary factor, other demographic characteristics also influence arthritis rates. In 2024, about 24 percent of women were diagnosed with arthritis, indicating a higher prevalence among females. Education levels also play a role, with approximately 28 percent of adults with less than a high school education reporting arthritis. Additionally, race appears to be a factor, as 12 percent of Asian adults were diagnosed with the condition as of 2024, compared to 24 percent of white adults.

Geographic differences in arthritis rates

Arthritis prevalence varies significantly across states, revealing geographic disparities in the condition's impact. In 2023, West Virginia had the highest rate, with 40 percent of adults affected by arthritis, compared to only 21 percent in Texas. The gender gap in arthritis rates is particularly pronounced in Delaware, where 34 percent of women reported having the condition, compared to 23 percent of men. These regional differences suggest that factors such as local healthcare access, lifestyle, and environmental conditions may influence arthritis prevalence.