Background: Due to its chronic nature and its associated impact on physical function and life quality, arthritis in its various forms imposes a significant burden on society. Objective: To critically review and evaluate: (1) what has been documented about the burden of arthritis, (2) what is being done in treatment, and (3) what might be done at the primary, secondary and tertiary prevention levels to offset this burden. A further objective was to offer some evidence-based strategies for reducing the prevalence of arthritis and its disability-related complications, including screening, high-quality patient education and self-management programmes, advocacy, and research. Method: An in-depth literature review and systematic analysis of the related literature was conducted. Results: Although steps have been taken both in the context of the American Arthritis Plan and the "Healthy People 2010" arthritis objectives, more needs to be done to reduce the increasing burden of arthritis through prevention. One or more of the currently documented intervention strategies may assist in ameliorating, or possibly preventing, the extent of arthritis-related disability. (Contains 1 figure and 1 table.)