FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 5, 2009
Arthritis Awareness Month observed
COLUMBIA - The month of May has been proclaimed as Arthritis Awareness Month in South Carolina by Gov. Mark Sanford to encourage people to learn more about arthritis, the state Department of Health and Environmental Control reported today.
“Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the nation and one of the most common chronic conditions,’ said Cora Plass, DHEC’s Healthy Aging program director. “Fortunately, there are positive steps South Carolinians can take to prevent or reduce the disabling effects of arthritis. Staying active, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding injuries are effective prevention measures, particularly for osteoarthritis, the condition’s most common form.”
Plass said arthritis affects an estimated 46 million people or 1 in 5 adults in this country and limits activity for 19 million others. In South Carolina, an estimated 967,000 adults reported doctor-diagnosed arthritis.
“People who have doctor-diagnosed arthritis should seek appropriate medical treatment, participate in regular physical activity and practice self-management approaches to manage their condition,” Plass said. “To help people manage their condition and take control of their health, DHEC’s arthritis program has developed partnerships with the Arthritis Foundation, the Lt. Governor’s Office on Aging, along with many community and faith-based partners to create widespread access to proven programs for people with arthritis.”
Plass said that due to the partnerships, programs are available for people with arthritis and other chronic conditions including:
- The Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program - This gentle exercise program was designed for people with arthritis and other rheumatic conditions. It includes stretching and strengthening exercises and movement activities to help relieve stiffness and reduce pain.
- The Arthritis Foundation Self- Help Program - This small-group workshop helps people with arthritis learn to take control of their lives through knowledge. It consists of six sessions guided by two trained leaders. Participants develop skills and gain confidence to make positive changes in their lives.
- Living Well South Carolina (Chronic Disease Self-Management Program) - This small group workshop was designed to help people with an ongoing health condition get more out of life by doing the things they want to do. People with a variety of conditions, such as arthritis, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease and asthma meet in a supportive setting once a week for six weeks.
For more information about program locations or to start a program in your area, call 1-800-868-0404 visit DHEC’s Web site http://www.scdhec.gov/arthritis
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For more information:
Thom Berry - (803) 898-3885
E-mail - berrytw@dhec.sc.gov
BNR1896