Healthy Habits: Rheumatic Disease State Report Cards

The statistics are startling. More than 54 million American adults—one in four—have been diagnosed with a rheumatic disease, and a recent study suggests that the number of Americans living with a rheumatic disease may be nearly twice that high (when taking into account reported symptoms of undiagnosed individuals). So, chances are that if you don’t have a rheumatic disease, you know somebody who does. 

Just in time for Rheumatic Disease Awareness Month, The American College of Rheumatology will be releasing a first-of-its-kind report card, which seeks to answer the question, how easy is it to live with rheumatic disease in YOUR state. 

The grades are also startling.  More than half of all states received an “F” in affordability, and the majority of states received an overall grade of a “C”.  Clearly, there is a lot of work needed to improve the quality of life for Americans living with rheumatic disease.

Dr. Kelly Weselman of the American College of Rheumatology is featured in this video to discuss:

• The overall results of the report card.
• The medical costs associated with rheumatic diseases, which generate $140 billion annually in the U.S, surpassing that of cancer care.
• The need for awareness and improvement of care for those living with Rheumatic Diseases

About Rheumatic diseases: Rheumatic diseases are autoimmune and inflammatory diseases that cause the immune system to attack a person’s joints, muscles, bones, and organs.  There are over 100 types of rheumatic diseases - of which Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and lupus are some of the most commonly known. 

Courtesy: The American College of Rheumatology