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National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Arthritis Home | Contact Us |
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Arthritis and chronic joint symptoms affect nearly 70 million Americans, or about one of every three adults, making it one of the most prevalent diseases in the United States. As the population ages, this number will increase dramatically.
Percentage of Adults Aged 18 years or Older With Arthritis or Chronic Joint Symptoms, by State or Territory United States, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 2001
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Source: Prevalence of Self-Reported Arthritis or Chronic Joint Symptoms Among Adults United States, 2001. MMWR 2002;51(42):948950.
Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States Leading Causes of Disability Among U.S. Adults, 1999
[Descriptive text for graph above] Source: Prevalence of Disabilities and Associated Health Conditions Among Adults United States, 1999. MMWR 2001;50(7):1205. In addition to the physical toll, the medical and societal costs of arthritis are enormous.
Source: Praemer, A; Furner, S; Rice, DP: Musculoskeletal Conditions in the United States, published by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons; Rosemont, IL, 1999. Who has arthritis?The prevalence of arthritis is high for all demographic groups, but especially higher among women, older persons, and those with less education. Prevalence of Arthritis or Chronic Joint Symptoms (CJS) Among U.S. Adults by Gender, 2001.
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Prevalence of Arthritis or Chronic Joint Symptoms (CJS) Among U.S. Adults by Age Group Among U.S. Adults, 2001.
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Prevalence of Arthritis or Chronic Joint Symptoms (CJS) Among U.S. Adults by Educational Level, 2001.
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Prevalence varies by race and ethnicity, being higher among Caucasians (35.3%) and African-Americans (31.5%), but somewhat lower among Hispanic-Americans (23.3%). Prevalence of Arthritis or Chronic Joint Symptoms (CJS) Among U.S. Adults by Race, 2001.
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People with arthritis are less active and heavier than the population in general. Prevalence of Arthritis or Chronic Joint Symptoms (CJS) Among U.S. Adults by Physical Activity Level, 2001.
[Descriptive text for graph above] Recommended activity is moderate physical
activity at least 5 days per week for 30 minutes or more per day, vigorous
physical activity on at least 3 days per week for at least 20 minutes per
day, or both. Physical activity includes leisure-time, household, and
transportation. Prevalence of Arthritis or Chronic Joint Symptoms (CJS) Among U.S. Adults by Body Mass Index (BMI), 2001.
[Descriptive text for graph above] Source for all of the prevalence charts: Prevalence of Self-Reported Arthritis or Chronic Joint Symptoms Among Adults United States, 2001. MMWR 2002;51(42):948950. The Public Health ApproachIn November 1998, the first ever plan to address arthritis using a public health approach was released. This landmark plan, developed under the leadership of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Arthritis Foundation, and the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials, with input from more than 90 organizations, recommends action in three major areas for individuals and groups interested in reducing the impact of arthritis:
The National Arthritis Action Plan: A Public Health Strategy (NAAP) (PDF1,248K) emphasizes broad efforts that reach population groups. This approach complements the traditional medical model that emphasizes treating the individual with arthritis. CDC is working with others to help fulfill the aims of the National Arthritis Action Plan to
One good example is the inclusion of arthritis objectives in Healthy People 2010 (HP2010) the health objectives for the nation. Arthritis was not even mentioned in earlier versions for Healthy People 1990 (HP1990) and Healthy People 2000 (HP2000) objectives. The National Arthritis Action Plan highlights the need for partnerships to address this enormous public health problem. Partnerships among the medical community, voluntary, and national, state, and local public health agencies will enhance coordinated efforts to improve the quality of life among almost 70 million Americans with arthritis or chronic joint symptoms.
The
National Arthritis Action Plan: A Public Health Strategy (NAAP) What can be done?We can do the effective things that are not being done enough. Research shows that physical activity decreases pain, improves function and delays disability. In addition, research studies suggest that maintaining an ideal body weight and avoiding joint injuries reduces the risk of developing arthritis and may decrease disease progression. Obtaining an early diagnosis so that appropriate management, including self-management, can be initiated may improve the quality of life for persons with arthritis. Early diagnosis and appropriate management of arthritis, including self-management activities such as self-help courses, weight control, and physical activity can help people with arthritis function better, stay productive, and lower health care costs. Related Links
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