Arthrtitis Foundation Survey Finds Nearly 3 in 4 Arthritis Patients Struggle with Arthritis Daily
ATLANTA, September 6, 2016 – The Arthritis Foundation conducted a nationwide survey, commissioned by Harris Poll, to gain a deeper understanding of the everyday challenges faced by people living with arthritis. The survey was administered online to 1,478 U.S. adults, including both people with arthritis who have and those who have not engaged with the Arthritis Foundation, as well as parents of children with juvenile arthritis. Survey results show pain continues to limit and hinder people with arthritis, making it challenging to execute self-care, school, work or recreational activities.
Initial findings indicate that pain limits and alters daily activities. In fact, nearly 3 in 4 (73 percent) engaged with the Foundation strongly/somewhat agreed that they “struggle with arthritis daily.”
“Pain is a common but significant side effect of arthritis and understanding how to manage it is important,” said Cindy McDaniel, senior vice president of consumer health and impact for the Arthritis Foundation. “To empower people with arthritis to live their best life, the Arthritis Foundation is continually developing tools and resources that provide tips, support and ideas for how to overcome the daily challenges of living with arthritis.”
In addition to the Arthritis Foundation study, earlier this year, Iroko Pharmaceuticals, LLC, funded a survey, Understanding America’s Pain, which found that many Americans lack a basic understanding about pain medications and the potential risks they pose. That study revealed that, in addition to the lack of understanding, only 30 percent of respondents who experience pain feel their pain is completely controlled.
The Arthritis Foundation is reviewing the comprehensive results of its study conducted by Harris Poll to identify and introduce new tools to help people with arthritis cope with pain. Launched last year, the Arthritis Resource Finder, YES (Your Exercise Solution) tool and Better Living Toolkit help patients improve their quality of life – helping them find local programs and professionals, maintain the physical activities that they love and manage their disease.
Methodology
The Arthritis Foundation survey was conducted online by Harris Poll on behalf of the Arthritis Foundation between June 3 and July 13, 2016, among 1478 U.S. adults aged 18 or older who are diagnosed with arthritis or the parent of a child with arthritis who is under the age of 18. The sample included 722 adults with arthritis who are members of the Arthritis Foundation. Results have been weighted to be representative of key population demographics such gender, age, race, geography, and education among the general population. Among Arthritis Foundation members data has been weighted proportionately to represent the populations of involvement groups outlined above. For more information on the study please contact Claire Villines, communications manager, Arthritis Foundation.
About the Arthritis Foundation
The Arthritis Foundation is the Champion of Yes. Leading the fight for the arthritis community, the Foundation helps conquer everyday battles through life-changing information and resources, access to optimal care, advancements in science and community connections. The Arthritis Foundation’s goal is to chart a winning course, guiding families in developing personalized plans for living a full life – and making each day another stride towards a cure. The Foundation also publishes Arthritis Today, the award-winning magazine that reaches 4 million readers per issue.