While I love that this movement exists, I am once again frustrated that Osteoarthritis and Autoimmune Arthritis are being lumped into the same category. It’s true that even when I explain the difference, 9/10 it is disregarded and my autoimmune disease is still misunderstood and mistaken for an elderly “naturally occurring” disease.

The International Autoimmune Arthritis Movement is bringing attention to this issue by putting arthritis in quotations. An excerpt from their newsletter:

On October 12th, it’s World “Arthritis” Day.  IAAM puts the word “arthritis” in quotations to highlight the fact that over the years the word has become a generic term for all strands of arthritis.  This has
led to a gross misunderstanding that ALL arthritis can be treated by over-the-counter medications or simple diet adjustments (see example below), that ALL arthritis is merely joint pain and that ALL arthritis is caused by old age, wear and tear, or injury.  In fact, seven out of over 100 types of arthritis are classified as Autoimmune Arthritis diseases, which are serious, systemic diseases that involve the whole body, including organ involvement…

After reading about the campaign on the Arthritis Foundation’s website here, it is unfortunately and painfully obvious that World “Arthritis” Day is focused on OA. To quote: “Join the Arthritis Foundation community in supporting the 27 million people living with osteoarthritis.”

It seems that once again, the forgotten majority exists in silence. So as a part of the forgotten majority, it is our responsibility to step up and join IAAM in their mission. Here’s how:

• Please forward/reblog along this post

• Please highlight the differences between Osteoarthritis and Autoimmune Arthritis

• Please advocate for your cause, write a quick blurb about what it means to have autoimmune arthritis, or post resources that explain your disease

• Purchase a wristband from IAAM

• Wear blue AND purple to represent all types of arthritis.

• Please STAND UP and be an advocate for Autoimmune Arthritis.

Remember, empower, advocate, educate.