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Michigan Residents Dealing with Arthritis Urged to Take Control of Their Health

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 10, 2013

LANSING – World Arthritis Day is Oct. 12, and the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) is encouraging residents to mark the occasion by taking control of their health. Arthritis is a serious health condition affecting more than 2 million Michigan adults, and is the leading cause of disability in the country.

According to recently released national data, 11 percent of adults nationwide with arthritis report being limited in social participation activities. This number is even higher in Michigan, where 19 percent of adults with arthritis are limited in their ability to participate in social activities. The symptoms associated with arthritis can cause people to limit activities such as shopping, going to the movies or sporting events, visiting friends, attending clubs or meetings, and more.

Personal Action Toward Health (PATH) workshops are proven to help adults with arthritis feel better, be in control of their health, and do the things they want to do. PATH workshops are six weeks long, typically have 12-16 participants, and are appropriate for anyone dealing with a long-term health condition. Caregivers are also encouraged to participate. Workshops are led by two trained leaders, at least one of whom has a chronic condition.

"World Arthritis Day is a great opportunity for individuals with arthritis in Michigan to learn about the PATH program and all that it offers to patients and their caregivers," said Dr. Matthew Davis, Chief Medical Executive with the MDCH. "Arthritis can feel very limiting, and the PATH program is designed to help patients feel empowered to address those limits and regain time and activities they enjoy with family and friends."

PATH workshops are offered in communities throughout Michigan and are usually free of charge. Visit www.michigan.gov/arthritis to find out more about PATH workshops, and the other programs available to Michigan residents to help them take control of their health.

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