Kathmandu, October 12 Various healthcare organisations and governmental bodies have observed World Arthritis Day amidst various awareness raising programs today with a slogan ‘Don’t Delay – Connect Today’. Bone and joint pains, swelling in the knuckles, redness, loss of muscle mass, back pain and morning stiffness, are common symptoms of arthritis. Rheumatologists and members of National Centre for Rheumatic Diseases during a free health camp organised in Sundhara today shed light on the disease and its preventive measures. More than 1,500 people visited the camp, where they were informed about arthritis, said the NCRD, adding that 240 free blood samples were tested in the event. Speaking at the programme, Dr Abhilasa Shah encouraged people to come forward for treatment of the disease and cautioned them not to take any kind of joint pain lightly. “Every kind of rheumatic disease is curable if treated before it gets worse,” the doctor said. Similarly, Dr Lucky Sharma said the disease was more common in women, adding that women had less access to health services. Arthritis is more common among adults between 40 to 50 years of age. However, the disease can affect people of any age groups. Also today, Norvic International Hospital organised a walkathon to mark Work Arthritis Day. In a press release, the hospital stated that people of all ages could be affected by this disease during their lifetime and that, moreover, an untreated rheumatic problem might even reduce life expectancy. Factors such as smoking, excessive weight, genetic condition, strain on joints and ageing can increase the risk of developing arthritis, according to doctors.