Reliable estimates of disease burden support rational allocation of financial and human resources. Measurement is a powerful force for change as 'what gets measured gets done'. The global burden of musculoskeletal disease studies ensures visibility of these highly prevalent, disabling diseases. Now we must act to reduce disease burden.
1. Ellis B, Silman A. Epidemiology: measurement matters--making musculoskeletal disease count. Nat Rev Rheumatol. 2014 Aug;10(8):449-50. doi: 10.1038/nrrheum.2014.90. Epub 2014 Jun 10.