Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in Arkansas and the United States; limiting activities and depriving people of their independence and quality of life. Therefore, arthritis can no longer be ignored as a public health problem.

The Arkansas Arthritis Health Program received funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in September 2001.  The Arthritis Health Program has been active since April 2002 in the charge to reduce the burden of arthritis and other rheumatic conditions in Arkansas.