Purpose: To assess arthritis prevalence and variation in Los Angeles County. Background: Arthritis, the leading cause of disability in the United States, affects 43 million people and accounts for almost $65 billion dollars annually in medical costs and lost productivity. Arthritis and arthritis- associated disability are expected to progressively impact quality of life in the US as the population ages. While national level data exist, there are few local level sources available to assess arthritis prevalence. Methods: The 1999 Los Angeles County Health Survey, a random-digit-dial telephone survey, questioned 8354 adults aged 18 and older about a variety of health behaviors and outcomes. A review of arthritis prevalence and risk markers was conducted using this data. Results: An estimated 16% of adult Los Angeles residents report an arthritis diagnosis. Those with arthritis are more likely to be women (21% vs. 11% for men), to be 50 years of age and older (36% vs. 8%), to be overweight (20% vs. 13%), and to have a diagnosis of depression (34% vs. 15%). Prevalence varies greatly with race/ethnicity from 9% among AP/I to 35% among AI. Conclusions: The epidemiologic profile of arthritis in Los Angeles County is different from the nation’s. While the overall percent affected is similar to the US prevalence, the county’s remarkable diversity is reflected in higher proportions for all race/ethnicity classifications. As the demographic shift continues towards heterogeneity, arthritis can be expected to remain a multi-cultural issue and local prevention efforts will need to be developed and targeted appropriately.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session participants will be able to: 1. Assess the need for local surveillance in addressing chronic diseases. 2. Identify racial and ethnic health disparities at the local level that may not be immediately obvious when looking at aggregate data. 3. Evaluate the relative impact of demographic factors on age related chronic disease.
Keywords: Arthritis,
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.