Juvenile Arthritis

Juvenile Arthritis (JA) is one of the most common childhood diseases affecting more than 300,000 children in the U.S. and an estimated 8,600 in New Jersey. JA affects more children than juvenile diabetes and cystic fibrosis combined.

Juvenile arthritis is actually an umbrella term for a number of childhood diseases which affect the joints and musculoskeletal system. JA destroys joints, bones, muscles, cartilage and other connective tissues, making it painful to hold a pencil, climb a jungle gym or play ball with friends. The most common type of JA is juvenile idiopathic arthritis. But, no matter what form of the disease a child has, it changes his or her life forever.

We are leading the way in providing support and hope for children with JA and their families through research, advocacy, special programs, one-on-one support, and our strong partnerships with providers. Through our office in New Jersey, we are on the ground in communities, on the other end of the phone, and only a click away, providing support and information when and where families need it.

KidsGetAthritisToo.org, our national interactive website is designed especially for the JA community, offering information, local resources and opportunities for families to learn more and connect with experts and other families living with arthritis.

We help families and children by advocating for public policy changes and research to find a cure as well as providing support and programs to help make living with JA better. Click here to learn about our advocacy efforts in New Jersey. Our ultimate goal is to find a cure for arthritis so that kids can be kids. That is why we fund life-changing research as well a financially support the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA). Click here to learn more.

Our programs for families and kids

A diagnosis of JA can turn lives upside down and make kids and their families feel isolated and challenged like never before. We bring kids with JA and their families together to provide information, help them understand the complex treatment options, and foster a supportive and understanding community of families, staff and volunteers. Click below or return to our main JA menu to learn about the programs and support we provide in New Jersey.