A Guide to Rheumatoid Arthritis for Legislators Rheumatoid Arthritis Policy Resource Center Women In Government

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis? Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an auto-immune disease that causes joint swelling, pain and stiffness often in several joints. RA has no known definitive cause. It is thought that genes, hormones and perhaps the environment may play a role in its onset. It affects two to three times more women than men, with prevalence increasing with age. Progression of the disease often leads to joint deformity and loss of function. Arthritis and other rheumatic conditions are the most common cause of disability in the United States.

How many Americans have RA? 1.2 million Americans have RA 46 million Americans have an arthritic condition, including RA Incidence of RA peaks around age 60

How are states affected by Arthritis? The state burden of arthritis varies widely

Theis KA, Helmick CG, Hootman JM. Arthritis burden and impact are greater among U.S. women than men: intervention opportunities. Journal of Women’s Health 2007;16(4):441–453. State-level Impact of Arthritis

Theis KA, Hootman JM, Helmick CG, Murphy L, Bolen J, Langmaid G, Jones GC. State-specific prevalence of arthritis-attributable work limitation—United States, MMWR 2007;56(40):1045– State-Level Impact (continued) Arthritis and other related arthritis conditions are the #1 cause of disability in the U.S.

Importance to State Legislators As the U.S. population ages, the number of people with RA and other arthritic conditions will increase. States with a high elderly or aging population will be disproportionately affected.

From: BRFFS US Census Bureau. Accessed from: tatistics/state_data.htm Projected State-level Increase In Arthritis

Murphy L, Cisternas M, Yelin E, Trupin L, Helmick C. Update: Direct and indirect costs of arthritis and other rheumatic conditions—United States, MMWR 2004;53(18):388–389. State-Level Economic Impact

What can you do to affect RA in your state? Educate constituents about the symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. Increase the availability of screenings and treatment to low-income, women and minority communities through clinics and public health departments. Create or support health initiatives to promote life style modifications associated with RA risk factors: smoking cessation; 30 minutes a day of physical activity and weight management.