Article Abstract:
The results of a national survey on the prevalence of arthritic conditions are reported. In 1987, an estimated 14.6 percent of the United States population had one or more of the following conditions: arthritis, bursitis, gout, and rheumatism. Twelve percent of the population saw a physician about an arthritic condition. Limitation of activity was reported in 2.6 percent of the population overall, but among persons over age 75 this figure was substantially higher at 12.6 percent. It should be noted that these data were obtained from self-reports, meaning the persons surveyed stated their own diagnosis and its effects. The accuracy of such reports has not been determined, but the figures obtained were similar to previous reports based on clinical diagnosis. The survey excluded institutionalized persons, but it was estimated that inclusion of nursing home residents would only have increased the national prevalence of arthritic conditions by less than 2 percent. The data revealed that 2.5 percent of the US population believe they have arthritis or a related problem, but they have not seen a doctor for it; this suggests that barriers to seeking health care need to be identified and removed. The incidence of arthritic conditions is expected to rise as the population ages, and educational programs for the public and for primary care health professionals are needed to minimize the disability that can result. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Article Abstract:
Arthritis is the most commonly self-reported disease affecting women. Arthritis was the dominant cause of activity restraint among American women from 1989-1991. The condition, which can cause painful and inflamed joints, was self-reported by 22.8 million women during this time period. The risk of arthritis increased with age and weight. For women 65 and older, the rate of arthritis was 55.8%, 33.5% for women 45-64, and 8.6% for women aged 15-44. Arthritis was more prevalent in women with incomes of under $10,000 a year and those with less education. The incidence of arthritis among women is expected to increase to 35.9 million by 2020, mostly because of larger numbers of aged. The incidence of arthritis may be reduced by weight control, prevention of joint injuries, early detection and effective management of the disease.
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic:
Article Abstract:
About 43 million Americans had arthritis in 1997, up from 38 million in 1990. If this increase continues, about 60 million Americans will be affected by arthritis by 2020.
User Contributions:
Comment about this article or add new information about this topic: