About the Resource Center

Women In Government launched the Rheumatoid Arthritis Policy Resource Center to identify policy issues related to Rheumatoid Arthritis. The Policy Resource Center supports state legislative and outreach activities; establishes a clearinghouse of educational materials and policy resources; and heightens the awareness of Rheumatoid Arthritis.

The Rheumatoid Arthritis Policy Resource Center aims to educate state legislators about preventive issues related to Rheumatoid Arthritis, such as the importance of the early detection and treatment of this disease.

To become involved with the Resource Center and our goals:

Use the resources on our website.
Send us an email with your suggestions for more resources that might help further your work about Rheumatoid Arthritis and arthritis.
Work towards increasing awareness about the importance of early detection and treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Establish relationships with Health Department officials focused on Rheumatoid Arthritis, auto-immune diseases and other arthritic conditions.
Become a member of Women In Government.

Facts & Statistics

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease with no known cause or cure.
Approximately 1.3 million Americans have RA.
Two to three times more women than men have RA.
Onset usually occurs between 20 and 60 years of age with incidence increasing with age.
Possible RA risk factors include genetics, environment (bacteria or virus), hormone levels and/or stress.
RA often begins with morning stiffness and fatigue, progressing over weeks or months to joint swelling and pain.
Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment are essential to slow progression of the disease and delay loss of function.
Treatment often includes a combination of medication and possibly surgery.
Arthritis and other rheumatic conditions are the most common cause of disability in the United States.

About the Resource Center

Facts & Statistics

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