World Arthritis Day (WAD) is an annual global awareness day on October 12th, established in 1996 by Arthritis and Rheumatism International (ARI), to highlight the significant impact of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs), drive action for better care, and raise awareness that arthritis is a serious public health issue, not just an "invisible disease". It's a time for organizations like the Arthritis Foundation and EULAR to promote understanding, research, and support for the hundreds of millions affected worldwide.