Arthritis

The word arthritis applies to more than 100 different conditions of unknown or varied causes. Joint involvement is the most characteristic aspect of arthritis, but various forms can also result in such problems as kidney disease, blindness, and premature death. Arthritis causes pain, loss of movement, and sometimes swelling of joints and tissues. Common forms of arthritis include: Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Gout, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Juvenile Arthritis, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus also known as Lupus or SLE, and Scleroderma.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), arthritis and chronic joint symptoms affect nearly 70 million Americans, or about one of every three adults, making it one of the most prevalent diseases in the United States. As the population ages, this number will increase dramatically. Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States, and is one of Missouri's most prevalent chronic health problems, affecting one of every three Missourians 18 years of age and older.

A Juvenile Arthritis educational video produced in conjunction with the Missouri School Boards' Association (MSBA) and the Missouri Arthritis Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (MARRTC) can be found at: http://esn.msbanet.org/programs.htm

A Osteoporosis educational video produced in conjunction with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (MDHSS), Missouri School Boards' Association (MSBA) and the Missouri Arthritis Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (MARRTC) can be found at: http://winmedia.umsl.edu\msba\Osteoporosis_Broadband_High_384x288.wmv