BALTIMORE, MD (January
27, 2007)- More than half of Maryland residents over the age of 65
are affected by arthritis, a painful disease that includes more than
100 conditions that cause pain, inflammation and stiffness in joints,
according to the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH). It
is the leading cause of disability in Maryland and results in billions
of lost wages and medical expenses each year.
In response, in 1999 the
department launched the Maryland Arthritis Project, an initiative
designed to reduce the physical and financial burden of the chronic
disease. Based in DHMH's Office of Health Promotion, the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)-funded project offers arthritis
self-help classes throughout the state, collects and analyzes data
about arthritis in Maryland, distributes arthritis resources to health
care providers, and promotes public awareness of the disease.
"Teaching arthritis
sufferers how to make lifestyle changes is an effective and non-invasive
way to manage this chronic condition," said Joan Stine, director
of the Office of Health Promotion. "We sponsor Arthritis Foundation
Self-Help classes to show participants how physical activity can relieve
pain and improve energy levels. These classes have been shown to reduce
arthritis-related pain by 20 percent and decrease doctor visits by
40 percent."
According to figures released
in this month's CDC Mortality and Morbidity Weekly Report (www.cdc.gov/mmwr),
Marylanders incurred nearly $2.5 billion in medical expenses and lost
earnings in 2003. Maryland and the nation have borne escalating costs
since 1997, due in part to the aging of the Post World War II population
explosion known as the 'Baby Boomer' generation. Increasing rates
of obesity and physical inactivity, both known risk factors for the
disease, have also contributed to the increase in costs.
People with arthritis include
those with ostearthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and other rheumatic
conditions, such as lupus erythematosus, gout, bursitis, and carpal
tunnel disease.
For more information about
the Maryland Arthritis Project, please visit our Web site at www.marylandarthritis.org.
Additional information about the self-help course or other questions
about arthritis, are available by contacting the Arthritis Foundation
Maryland Chapter at 1-800-365-3811.
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