Arthritis is Leading Cause of Disability in U.S. and Kansas

Arthritis and rheumatism are the leading causes of disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The number of Americans with a disability who have heart disease, diabetes and stroke combined do not equal the number of persons with arthritis (CDC statistics).

Of Kansans who are over 18 years of age and who report having doctor diagnosed arthritis or chronic joint symptoms, 29% report having an activity limitation according to preliminary data from the 2003 Kansas Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS).

“The percentage of adult Kansans who report having activity limitations because of arthritis or related conditions is significant,” said KDHE Secretary Roderick L. Bremby. “It is important that Kansans know how to manage their disease properly. Physical activity is an important part of preventing further disability from arthritis.”

During National Arthritis Awareness Month, Kansans who have arthritis are encouraged to work with their physician or rheumatologist and find the method that best helps them address their disease, including how physical activity fits into an effective self-management plan. While medications and surgery have made a significant impact on the management of arthritis in recent years, there is growing evidence that physical activity and weight control greatly reduce the disabling effect of this disease.

The Kansas Arthritis Program and the Arthritis Foundation chapters of Kansas and Western Missouri/Greater Kansas City have partnered since 1999 to promote the Arthritis Foundation Aquatics Program, PACE (People with Arthritis Can Exercise), and Arthritis Self-Help Course. These programs have been scientifically evaluated and have been shown to decrease disability by increasing muscle strength, energy, maintaining or improving activities of daily living and providing a number of other benefits. The Kansas Arthritis Program website identifies where these programs can be found: www.kdheks.gov/arthritis/

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