When all the forms of arthritis are taken together, it ranks as the leading cause of disability among American adults, affecting almost 43 million individuals — about one out of every six people — according to the Arthritis Foundation. In addition, it’s estimated that as the population ages, the number of affected individuals will increase dramatically — to almost 60 million by the year 2020.

It’s important to note, though, that arthritis is not just an “old person’s disease.” Nearly three out of every five people who have it are under 65, and children as young as a few weeks may display symptoms of certain types of arthritis. And actually, it’s not even limited to humans; any animal whose body contains joints can suffer from it. Learn more about arthritis and gout from this easy-to-read guide.  A Joint Venture: Your Guide To Gout