May is National Arthritis Awareness Month
COLUMBIA, South Carolina – (May 21, 2024) In 1972, at the urging of the Arthritis Foundation, Congress and President Richard M. Nixon designated May as National Arthritis Month — a special time to emphasize research, service and education around arthritis, and to raise funds to support the cause.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in three Veterans has arthritis.
“VA offers many treatments, education and resources to Veterans diagnosed with arthritis,” said Dr. Tracy L. Weistreich, nurse executive of VA’s National Center for Healthcare Advancement and Partnerships (HAP). Her office establishes non-monetary public-private partnerships to augment services available to all Veterans, irrespective of enrollment or eligibility.
While most people have probably heard of arthritis, it’s likely that many of them don’t know much about the impact of arthritis, the #1 cause of disability in the United States. That’s why, during Arthritis Awareness Month every May, the Arthritis Foundation calls extra attention to this painful and debilitating condition that affects nearly 60 million men, women and children in the U.S.
“Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in the world. It affects large numbers of people and large numbers of Veterans,” said Dr. Lee Day, chief of Rheumatology at the Columbia VA Health Care System.
Nearly 26 million are unable to do everyday activities because of arthritis.
Physical activity can help relieve arthritis symptoms, like joint pain and stiffness, that limit activities. CDC works to improve the quality of life for adults who live with arthritis and other chronic conditions by promoting physical activity and self-management education interventions.
“Depending on the severity, trying to do something is important. People tend to tolerate things that are easier on the joints, like swimming and biking,” added Day. “A study at the Houston VA showed a significant reduction of pain for those Veterans who use cycling as their primary mode of exercise.”
One in three adults with arthritis are not physically active (30%), have fair to poor health (33%), and have severe joint pain (33%), according to a recent CDC study. These rates were highest among people living in the Southeast, particularly Appalachia. Increasing awareness of and access to arthritis interventions can help improve the health and quality of life for adults living with arthritis and other chronic conditions.
There are some important studies that show the difference in incidents in osteoarthritis development in the knees between people who are recreational athletes as opposed to those who lead a sedentary life.
“The younger you are, it is important to commit to regular physical activity,” said Day. “It’s like an investment in yourself over the years. You are likely to have healthier joints, stronger muscles and that’s going to be important for less pain and overall longevity.”