Study finds increase in obesity prevalence among adults with arthritis

Arthritis FoundationApr 29 2011

People with arthritis are significantly more likely to be obese than those without the disease and the rate among them is increasing in far more states than it is decreasing, cites new CDC data released in conjunction with National Arthritis Awareness Month in May.  According to the Arthritis Foundation, the study underscores the need to expand obesity prevention, screening and treatment in adults with arthritis.

The study, published in the April 29 issue of Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, found obesity prevalence among adults with arthritis significantly increased in 14 states and Puerto Rico, stayed the same in most states/territories, and significantly decreased only in the District of Columbia.  Nearly all states reported obesity rates above the Healthy People 2020 goal of 30 percent for all adults.

Among the key findings:

• Obesity prevalence is 54% higher among adults with arthritis compared with adults without arthritis.  The median obesity prevalence for 50 states and the District of Columbia was:
  • In 2003:  33.2% with arthritis, 21.4% without arthritis
  • In 2009:  35.2% with arthritis, 23.6% without arthritis  
• Obesity prevalence among adults with arthritis varied greatly by state.  In 2009, obesity prevalence among adults with arthritis ranged from 26.9% in Colo. to 43.5% in La.
• From 2003 to 2009, obesity prevalence among people with arthritis increased in far more states that it decreased.
• Increased: Kan., Ky., La., Mich., Miss., Mo., Mont., N.M., S.C., S.D., Utah, Wash,     W. Va., Wis., Puerto Rico
• Decreased: District of Columbia

"Weight loss and physical activity can improve arthritis symptoms among obese adults with arthritis," says Arthritis Foundation Vice President of Public Health, Dr. Patience White.  "Moving just 30 minutes daily, even 10-15 minutes at a time, can ease joint pain, improve mobility and reduce fatigue often associated with arthritis.

"Obese adults with arthritis should not despair, even if they have a lot of weight to lose.  Even small amounts of weight loss, as little as 10-12 pounds for a 200-pound person, can improve arthritis symptoms and function," says Centers for Disease Control and Prevention epidemiologist, Jennifer M. Hootman.