African Americans and Hispanics Feel Greater Arthritis Burden

African American and Hispanic patients with arthritis experience a greater burden from their disease, according to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report, published in Preventing Chronic Disease.

While arthritis is generally less prevalent among these groups, the CDC report suggests that there is “a critical need to expand the reach of effective strategies aimed at arthritis prevention and management,” for these patients.

The report illustrates that these groups were more likely to experience activity limitation, work limitation, and severe joint pain than white patients.

The CDC highlighted prevention and management tips that have been shown to reduce the pain, including taking steps to lose some weight and engaging in physical activity. Patients can also take part in educational programs offered by the Arthritis Foundation, which have local offices around the country.