Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the important work that leading arthritis organizations are doing across Canada. This week, they are on Parliament Hill to raise awareness about the challenges faced by the more than six million Canadians living with arthritis. They embody the spirit of advocacy that is so vital in the fight against this pervasive disease.
Arthritis is often misunderstood as an ailment of older people, but half the people affected are under 65, including around 25,000 children. Arthritis is the most common chronic disease in Canada. It is estimated that the number will rise to nine million Canadians, or one in four, by 2040.
The debilitating pain limits mobility, hampers productivity and, sadly, can lead to isolation and have an impact on mental health. There is no cure for arthritis, but we can make a difference and help improve the lives of those suffering from it by working together to build a healthier future for all Canadians. This includes reducing wait times for diagnosis and treatment and improving access to care.
We thank Arthritis Society Canada and all partners for their advocacy.