Program Descriptions

Montana

Montana Arthritis Program

Arthritis Burden in Montana

More than one of four (26%) adults in Montana has arthritis (an estimated 202,000 people). In Montana groups most at risk for arthritis are women, older adults, people who are overweight or obese, and those who are less physically active. About 50% of adults aged 65 years or older have arthritis, compared with 34% for adults aged 45-64 years, and 9% for those aged 18-44 years. Arthritis affects all racial and ethnic groups in Montana. The prevalence of arthritis by race and ethnicity is 26% for whites, and 22% for Hispanic/Latinos. Half (50%) of adults in Montana with arthritis reported they are limited doing usual activities because of arthritis or joint symptoms. Of working-age (18-64 years) adults with arthritis, 41% (49,000) have some work limitation because of their arthritis.

In Montana, arthritis is a common contributor to multiple chronic conditions

• 53% (32,000) of adults with diabetes also have arthritis.
• 56% (28,000) of adults with heart disease also have arthritis.
• 45% (103,000) of adults with high blood pressure also have arthritis.
• 43% (83,000) of adults with high cholesterol also have arthritis.

Data Source: 2011 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Survey (BRFSS).

Planned Partnerships

• Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Bureau
• Montana Arthritis Foundation
• Montana Medicaid Program
• Local Hospitals
• Community Health Centers
• Senior Centers
• Local Health Departments

Proposed lnterventions

• Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program
• Walk with Ease Program
• Arthritis Self-management Program

Contact Information

Heather Beck
Arthritis Program Manger
Montana Arthritis Program
Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services
1400 Broadway, PO Box 202951
 

Helena, MT 59620

Telephone: (406) 444-0958
Fax: (406) 444-5900
HBeck@mt.gov

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