Spine-related disability is the #1 cause of suffering worldwide. The North American Spine Foundation (Spine Foundation) is a non-profit organization established to end spine-related disability through research, education and advocacy. Spine-related disability outpaces diabetes, lung cancer, tuberculosis, preterm birth and malaria as the leading cause of suffering worldwide. Surprisingly, the rate of spine pain has not changed, but the degree of spine-related disability has steadily increased over the past decade and continues to rise. Despite advances in medical care, the problem is escalating and worsening. This is due to the fact that spine-related disability is not just a medical issue; rather, it stems from a combination of occupational, psychological, social and medical factors. Not only does spine-related disability impact patients, it negatively affects you, even if you never experience a spine problem or impaired function. Unlike any other disease or condition, spine-related disability affects the prosperity of every human being on the planet. Indirectly, you sacrifice a substantial amount of money to support the care of patients with spine problems. The contributions are made through higher taxes and rising insurance premiums. Nobody can escape this problem and it is getting worse every day. By inspiring research that reveals innovative ways to prevent spine-related disability, through efforts to educate and build global awareness, and with a collective voice on policy issues, together, we will make a difference. We will favorably impact the lives, wealth and well being of everyone. For further information or to contribute to the North American Spine Foundation, visit www.spine.foundation or contact Michael L. Reed, Executive Director, at mreed@spine.foundation or call (630) 230-3688.