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Prevalence and impact of arthritis: Opportunities for prevention

Department of Health and Behavior Studies, Teachers College, Columbia University, Box 114, 525 West 120th Street, New York, NY 10027, USA rm226{at}columbia.edu

John P Allegrante

Department of Health and Behavior Studies and Center for Health Promotion, Teachers College, Columbia University, New York; Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York

Background Due to its chronic nature and its associated impact on physical function and life quality, arthritis in its various forms imposes a significant burden on society. Objective To critically review and evaluate: (1) what has been documented about the burden of arthritis, (2) what is being done in treatment, and (3) what might be done at the primary, secondary and tertiary prevention levels to offset this burden. A further objective was to offer some evidence-based strategies for reducing the prevalence of arthritis and its disability-related complications, including screening, high-quality patient education and self-management programmes, advocacy, and research. Method An in-depth literature review and systematic analysis of the related literature was conducted. Results Although steps have been taken both in the context of the American Arthritis Plan and the Healthy People 2010 arthritis objectives, more needs to be done to reduce the increasing burden of arthritis through prevention. One or more of the currently documented intervention strategies may assist in ameliorating, or possibly preventing, the extent of arthritis-related disability.

Key Words: arthritis • epidemiology • health education • intervention • prevention

Health Education Journal, Vol. 66, No. 1, 3-21 (2007)
DOI: 10.1177/0017896907069366


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