FOR RELEASE: April 26, 2005
CONTACT: Pamela Williams
Office of Communications
405/271-5601

Arthritis in Oklahoma’s Adult Minority Populations
May is National Arthritis Awareness Month

The prevalence of arthritis in Oklahoma’s racial and ethnic minority populations will be discussed at the May meeting of the Oklahoma Arthritis Network (OAN).
The meeting will begin at 2 p.m. on Thursday, May 5, at the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH), 1000 N.E. 10th Street, Room 314, Oklahoma City. It is free and open to the public.

Carrie Tutor, an epidemiologist with the Chronic Disease Service at the OSDH, will lead the discussion using data from Oklahoma’s 2003-2004 Minority Behavioral Risk Factor Survey. One item of interest gathered from survey responses will reveal how many survey participants with arthritis have consulted health professionals about health concerns related to weight management and physical activity.

The OAN features various speakers and presentations for the public to help maximize the quality of life for Oklahomans with arthritis and related health conditions through developing resources, promoting access to health care and offering public health education programs. Currently, there are about 100 public and private health and non-health related organizations in the OAN.

Videoconferencing is available through some county health departments. To find a location near you, or learn more information about arthritis, as well as upcoming OAN speakers, presentations, and activities available, contact Marisa New, coordinator of the OSDH Arthritis Prevention and Education Program, at (405) 271-9444, ext. 56410, or email her at marisan@health.state.ok.us .

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