Men’s Health Week: The Reality of Arthritis for Australian Men – what the numbers say
Having arthritis is tough. But is pushing through pain really a badge of honour? This Men’s Health Week, it’s time for a reality check.
The statistics show arthritis, including gout, is a serious and growing issue for men across Australia – and taking action now can make all the difference.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
- The number of Australian men projected to be living with arthritis will rise from 1.67 million in 2025 to over 2.17 million by 2040.
- While some forms of arthritis are more common in women, conditions such as gout are more prevalent in men
- Osteoarthritis impacts over 850,000, about 6.1% of, Australian men – with rates expected to climb over the next 15 years
- Rheumatoid Arthritis is estimated to affect over 212,000 Australian men in 2025, growing to over 280,000 by 2040.
- Arthritis does not just affect the elderly. In 2025, 14.9% of men aged 45-54, 25.9% of men aged 55-64, and 41.1% of men over 75 are expected to have arthritis. Arthritis impacts ALL ages.
- Two-thirds of Australian men delay seeing a doctor, putting their health at risk by missing opportunities for early intervention and better outcomes.
- Early diagnosis and proactive care can ease pain, improve mobility, and help men stay active and independent.
The Impact on Men’s Lives
Arthritis is more than joint pain -It can affect every part of your life. It can lead to disability, reduced mobility, and a loss of independence. But the impact goes beyond the physical.
- Some studies have found that arthritis can impact men’s mental health, relationships, and sexual function – especially increasing the risk of erectile dysfunction (ED), with 39.4% of men with arthritis affected versus 14% without. The good news: treating arthritis can reduce inflammation, pain, and fatigue, which may help improve ED and overall well-being
- Men with arthritis are more likely to be impacted by mental health condition, like depression and anxiety, but stigma and traditional masculine norms may delay seeking support
What do men living with arthritis have to say:
“In my culture, having gout and taking medications is seen as a sign of weakness. Initially, I refused to take medication, therefore, I was experiencing more gout flare ups – I wore it as a badge of honour, but now I do take my medications more regularly”, Vaireti, living with gout.
“The onset of rheumatoid arthritis has taught me not to ignore the little things, like those aches and pains that just don’t go away. As men, we often try to tough it out or let things go for a while, but taking action and getting a diagnosis for arthritis early has meant I can get the right treatment and get back into doing the things I love, including running with my wife and kids, and being present for my friends and family. If something feels off, don’t brush it aside and deal with it later if it gets worse. Taking that first step can help you keep enjoying the things you love, for yourself and for the people who matter to you.” Anthony, living with rheumatoid arthritis.
Why Men Delay, Why That’s a Problem and What Can Men Do?
Many men delay seeking help for arthritis symptoms, often waiting until pain or disability becomes severe. Research shows that early diagnosis and intervention can slow disease progression, reduce pain, and help men maintain active, fulfilling lives.
What can men do?
- Get Checked: Don’t ignore the signs: joint pain, stiffness, or swelling. Book a check-up with your GP.
- Get Diagnosed: Early diagnosis means more treatment options and a better chance to slow disease progression.
- Take Control: Work with your healthcare team to develop a personalised plan, including staying active and medications if needed.
The Bottom Line
Having arthritis is tough. But ignoring it doesn’t make you tougher.
This Men’s Health Week, challenge the idea that real strength means suffering in silence. Arthritis isn’t a badge of honour – it’s a reality check. Getting checked, diagnosed, and taking control is the best way for men to protect their health, independence, and quality of life.
AIHW: Chronic musculoskeletal conditions—All arthritis | https://viz.aihw.gov.au/t/Public/views/PHE317_Arthritis_Prevalence_130624/Ageandsexdashboard?%3Aembed=y&%3AisGuestRedirectFromVizportal=y
AIHW: Chronic musculoskeletal conditions—Osteoarthritis
AIHW: How healthy are Australia’s males? https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7733182/ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11251981/
https://www.curtin.edu.au/news/media-release/inflammatory-arthritis-has-significant-impact-on-sex-life-study-finds/
https://arthritisaustralia.com.au/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Arthritis-projection-2040-web-version.pdf
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