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April Is Cancer Control Month Background Arthritis and related conditions affect nearly 43 million Americans, or about one of every six people, making it one of the most prevalent diseases in the United States. By 2020, as the baby boom generation ages, an estimated 60 million Americans will be affected by arthritis.
Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States and although cost-effective interventions are available to reduce the burden of arthritis, they are currently underused. Besides the physical toll, arthritis costs the country nearly $65 billion annually.
Rates of arthritis are higher among women, older persons, rural populations, and those with low education or low income.
Rates are similar for whites (15.2%) and blacks (15.5%), but relatively low for Asian/Pacific Islanders (7.3%) and Hispanics (11.3%). Rates among people in the northeast and western regions of the United States are lower than those among other regions.
While people with arthritis are less active than the rest of the nation, there is evidence that behaviors such as weight reduction and avoiding injury may slow the progression and impact of osteoarthritis. Research also suggests that early diagnosis and appropriate management of arthritis (i.e., physical activity and maintaining an appropriate weight) can increase quality of life.
Source/Resource: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, December 08, 2000. March 2001 | ||||||||
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