Advocacy Project: Issue Overview

Introduction:

The topic I have chosen to cover is Arthritis. The issue is that people are unaware of how serious the risks involved with this disease are. There are ways to help prevent this disease and it is important more people get the proper education on how to prevent Arthritis before it is too late. The bill that has been proposed is called. H.R. 1210: Arthritis Prevention, Control, and Cure Act of 2009.

Who is affected by Arthritis? 
A common myth about Arthritis is that it only affects elderly people. Unfortunately, everyone is at risk, even children. According to this site 40 million people in the U.S. alone are affected by this chronic disease. Some risk factors that can not be modified and the people that are more likely to be diagnosed wtih Arthritis include: African Americans, Family history of having arthritis and men and women over the age of 45.
Risk factors that can be modified include: being over weight, and a history of injuries to your joints. reference

Who loses? People with lower socioeconomic statuses that do not have time to work out and exercise, and people that cannot pay for therapy or medications lose.


Who Wins? People with Higher socioeconomic statuses that can afford to pay for therapy to help them practice the correct exercises, pay for the proper medications and people that catch it in the early stage. 

Consequences of Arthritis

Acccording to senior health the consequences can be quite devastating. 50% of people with  arthritis are not able to work within 10 years of their diagnosis. It can lead to joint deformity and even worse, premature death.


Consequences for Families: The consequences for families can lead to very unfortunate situations. Income is a huge factor because if the patient is unable to work, they will not be able to have income from that individual. 

Consequences for Society: Arthritis is the second cause of work disability right behind heart disease. This can cause high consequences for the society because many people are out of jobs and many companies are losing valued employers. senior health


Economic Impact of Arthritis:
According to CDC $80.8 billion came from indirect cost and $47 billion was from indirect for the cost of arthritis in 2003. This adds up to a total $127.8 billion in the United States alone. Direct and indirect costs were based on doctor-diagnosed arthritis costs for each state.


Economic benefits: There are a few economic benefits for arthritis. Living with arthritis does not always mean higher bills. Diagnosed-arthritis patients can apply for state benefits in order to help pay bills. There are corporations such as "Access to Work" which helps people be able to overcome any barriers. There is also a program called "Disability Living Allowance" which provides people with disabilities extra help.


Social Impact to Arthritis:
There is a company by the name of "Allsup Inc." that helps people, especially with arthritis conditions. Fortunately, Allsup Inc. has a 97% award rate and try to do their best in helping people live a more "normal" lifestyle and get the benefits that is necessary. They determine the severity of your condition and your age to see what benefits are needed.

Barriers
There are quite a few barriers when it comes to arthritis. If one is not diagnosed soon enough it can cause more problems down the road. Also, not having the proper resources can be a big problem. It is very important you stay active and physically fit. Most people with arthritis are limited to every day activities they are used to.

Educating people about the proper ways to deal with the disease and signs of arthritis is very important. Also, it is essential that one catches the signs at an early stage so they can get the proper care. If you feel any of the warning signs make sure to get things checked out (better safe than sorry). Working out and staying healthy is a key factor.



Resources
Resources that supply facts, studies, history, brochures and graphs are great ways to address the topic and provide valid information. These resources can be found in clinics, hospitals, and permissible website. 

History 
Arthritis was discovered in 4500 B.C. According to arthritisygoy

around 500 B.C. willow bark, also known as the "wonder drug" was seen as a miracle drug that relieved aches and pains. Later on, they found it to be poisonous. Now days, it is a much different story. There are medications one can take. However, the most important thing is to keep motivated, stay active and exercise in order to reduce the risk. 

Allies and Opponents 
People who would support the issue would be health educators, people with the disease, friends and families of the individuals, doctors, and anyone interested in helping or supporting the cause.


Who would oppose? Some people who have never had arthritis or who have never had a family member or friend be affected by the disease. Also, people who do not want to pay state cost. 

My Recommendation 
 I want everyone to vote "YES!" to the  H.R. 1210: Arthritis Prevention, Control, and Cure Act of 2009 policy. It would help out a lot of amazing/innocent people who, unfortunately have been affected by Arthritis. As a country we need to help them stay strong and vote for what is right. Vote "YES!" for H.R.1210