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Epidemiology

Measurement matters—making musculoskeletal disease count

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.

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Acknowledgements

The authors acknowledge the helpful contribution of J. Oliver in the analysis of the data from the publications reviewed.

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Correspondence to Alan Silman.

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Ellis, B., Silman, A. Measurement matters—making musculoskeletal disease count. Nat Rev Rheumatol 10, 449–450 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1038/nrrheum.2014.90

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