MAY IS ARTHRITIS AWARENESS MONTH

Arthritis is a term used to describe more than 100 different conditions that affect joints as well as other parts of the body.  Arthritis is one of the most prevalent chronic health problems and the nation's most common cause of disability.  An estimated 46 million people in America have been diagnosed with arthritis including 300,000 children under the age of 18.

The most common types of arthritis include:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
• Osteoarthritis (OA)
• Juvenile Arthritis (JA)

Arthritis affects one in five adults in the United States, or an estimated 50 million people.

These estimates are expected to continue to soar, reaching 67 million by 2030.

Two-thirds of people with arthritis are younger than age 65.

In 2003, the total cost attributable to arthritis in the United States reached $128 billion.

Arthritis is the most common cause of disability  among adults in this country.

Are you surprized by any of these statements?  If so, you are not alone.  Most of us don't realize the significant and serious impact arthritis has on a person's quality of life, our country's economy, and the health of our nation.  It is much more than "just aches and pains".

Simple Steps for People with Arthritis:
Taking just a few simple steps can help keep pain away:

• Learn how to apply self-management strategies and techniques.
• Engage in regular physical activity.
• Keep weight under control.
• See your doctor for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
• Avoid joint injury to reduce your risk of developing osteoarthritis.

~Source:  http://www/cdc.gov/arthritis/media.htm
~Source:  This appeared in www.ThisWeekNEWS.com  (May 9, 2012)