| Arthritis is the New Jersey's leading cause of disability, affecting over 1.5 million residents. Of those affected, most (78%) have been diagnosed but are not currently receiving any treatment, and almost half of those diagnosed do not know what type of arthritis they have. Woman have a higher rate of arthritis (28%) compared to men (20%). The rate of arthritis increase with age: 9% of 18 to 44 year olds have arthritis, 32% of 45 to 64 year olds have arthritis, and 53% of those 65 years and older have arthritis. The estimated annual cost of arthritis in New Jersey exceeds 3 billion dollars for medical care and lost productivity.
Risk factors for Arthritis
- Age - Arthritis is the leading cause of physical
disability among adults age 18 and older.
- Gender - Arthritis occurs more frequently
in women than in men.
- Obesity increases the chance of osteoarthritis,
particularly for women
- Work factors - repetitive injury and physical
trauma contribute to development of osteoarthritis. Repetitive
bending, kneeling or squatting increases risk for osteoarthritis
of the knee.
- Ethnicity - Prevalence of arthritis is similar
among ethnic and racial groups, however the disabling effects of arthritis ( i.e. pain, activity and work limitations) affect minority groups more severely.
Preventing and Managing Arthritis
- Maintain a healthy, balanced diet. Include plenty of vegetables, fruits and whole-grain
products; use sugar, salt and fat (especially saturated fat found
in animal products) in moderation.
- If your weight is higher than your recommended weight, reduce calories and increase
your level of physical activity
- Increase your physical activity - especially range-of-motion exercises, increasing
muscle strength and aerobic or endurance exercises
- Avoid repetitive joint motion (bending knee or wrist)
- Wear protective gear to minimize your risk for sports-related injuries
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 reduce 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.
Resources
The Arthritis Foundation - New Jersey Chapter
- Main office
200 Middlesex Turnpike, Iselin NJ 08830
Phone 732/283-4300;
E-mail info.nj@arthritis.org
- South Jersey Office
9 Tanner Street, East Entry, Haddonfield NJ 08033
Phone 856/616-8000
- Support groups, exercise programs, special events, land-based
and water exercise classes, and public forums.
- Informational pamphlets and books, listing of physicians
and healthcare centers specializing in diagnosing and treating arthritis, up-to-date
information on arthritis and related diseases and effective
strategies for living better with arthritis.
Additional Links
New Jersey
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