Posted on September 20, 2011

Hispanics Are More Affected by Arthritis

My Latino Voice, September 20, 2011

An estimated 3.1 million Hispanics are living with arthritis according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), yet this critical health issue and its debilitating effects are not widely discussed. On September 20-21, Movement is Life will present the second annual Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Health Disparities caucus to address these critical issues.

Studies have shown that Latinos, African-Americans and women are disproportionately affected by arthritis and have more severe pain and limitation. According to the CDC, Hispanics and African Americans are nearly twice as likely as whites to have severe joint pain and work limitations. Among Latinos with arthritis, at least one in five reported a significant arthritis attributable effect, including severe joint pain and activity or work limitations.

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“Arthritis is the single greatest cause of chronic pain and disability, particularly among Hispanics, and finding a solution is critical,” said Alberto Bolanos, MD, Co-Founder, American Association of Latino Orthopaedic Surgeons. “By working together, we can decrease gender and racial musculoskeletal health disparities.”

Movement is Life aims to decrease the current existing gaps in musculoskeletal care delivery by raising awareness of the benefits of chronic disease management. {snip}

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