July 19, 2005

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In conjunction with the Department of Health & Senior Services and the Arthritis Foundation, DOP provided a forum for sharing important information about the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of arthritis.

Commissioner Torres addressed the audience on the Keys to Arthritis Management and said, “Arthritis impacts the workforce. We lose the ability to be our best. I hope you will share the information you receive today with your families and neighbors.”

Sharing her personal experiences in raising her son Marcus, aged four - and introducing him to the audience - DOP Director of EEO/AA, Michele C. Meyer-Shipp, discussed the challenges faced by her family in getting Marcus correctly diagnosed as having Rheumatoid Arthritis, finding the proper treatment, and living with the disease.

Peggy Lotkowictz, Director of Programs, Arthritis Foundation, also talked about living with the pain and physical limitations that arthritis can cause, and the importance of an early diagnosis by a doctor. Additionally, Ms. Lotkowictz discussed the risk factors for developing arthritis and ways to help prevent and manage the disease.

Risk Factors for Osteoarthritis (the most common form of the disease):

• Age
• Gender – occurs more frequently in women
• Work factor – repetitive injury and physical trauma
• Heredity – family history of arthritis

Preventing and Managing Arthritis:

• A healthy diet – eat in moderation
• Exercise
• Avoid repetitive joint motion (bending knee or wrist)
• Wear protective gear to decrease risk of sports injuries

A special thanks to Stephanie Katz, Arthritis Program Manager, Department of Health and Senior Services, for helping to make this event possible.

For more information, please see the websites:

• Department of Health & Senior Services
• Arthritis Foundation