Arthritis affects an estimated 46.4 million adults in the US, of whom 61 percent (28.3 million) are women. By the year 2020, this number is expected to reach 60 million. Rheumatic – diseases are a more frequent cause of activity limitation than heart disease, cancer, or diabetes. The various forms of arthritis and related conditions can affect anyone, no matter what your race, gender or age. However, it is especially important for women to be educated about these diseases since they affect women at a much higher rate than men. To increase the awareness of arthritis related health issues and educate the audience about steps to be taken for prevention and care, BAPS Charities organized a health awareness lecture for women at over 50 centers in North America on September 29, 2012.