A new study reveals significant racial and ethnic disparities in arthritis prevalence and pain severity among U.S. adults. Researchers analyzing data from the CDC’s 2019 National Health Interview Survey found that American Indian and Alaska Native adults had the highest rates of arthritis at 30.3%, compared to 22.9% for white adults.
More alarmingly, severe joint pain was reported by 39.1% of American Indian/Alaska Native patients with arthritis, 36.4% of Black patients, and 35.7% of Hispanic patients – all substantially higher than the 22.5% rate among white patients. These disparities persisted even after accounting for factors like socioeconomic status and other health conditions.
“Reasons for these disparities in physician counseling for physical activity are unclear, but providers may perceive certain subgroups to have a greater need for physical activity advice and focus on these patients,” the study authors noted.
Interestingly, Black and Hispanic adults were more likely to receive physical activity counseling from healthcare providers compared to white adults. However, fewer than 60% of arthritis patients in any racial/ethnic group received such counseling.
Dr. Erica L. Odom, study co-author from the CDC, emphasized the need for further research, stating: “More research is needed to identify effective strategies to reduce the burden of arthritis on individuals, employers and communities, as well as eliminate health disparities.” The findings highlight the urgent need to address racial and ethnic disparities in arthritis care and outcomes in the United States.