H.R. 1210 / S. 984
Representative Anna Eshoo (D-CA)
Representative Fred Upton (R-MI)
Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA)
Senator Kit Bond (R-MO)
Why is the Arthritis Act so important?
Nearly one in five adult Americans (46 million) suffer from arthritis.
Over 300,000 children also live with the pain, disability and emotional trauma caused by juvenile arthritis.
Nine states do not have a single pediatric rheumatologist.
Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States.
According to the CDC, the total costs attributable to arthritis and other rheumatic conditions in the United States in 2003 was approximately $128 billion.
The burden of arthritis will continue to rise: by the year 2030, an estimated 67 million Americans will suffer from the debilitating pain and limited mobility caused by arthritis.
The "Arthritis Prevention, Control, and Cure Act of 2009" would enhance rheumatic disease research and public awareness of these
Enhancing the National Arthritis Action Plan by providing additional support to federal, state, and private/non-profit efforts to prevent and manage arthritis.
Providing federal support for initiatives to educate the healthcare profession and the public on successful self-management strategies for controlling arthritis.
Bolstering federal juvenile arthritis research activities and prioritizing epidemiological activities focused on better understanding the prevalence, incidence, and outcomes associated with juvenile arthritis.
Providing training grants to universities supporting pediatric rheumatology programs.
Establishing an education loan repayment program to create incentives for medical students to enter the field of pediatric rheumatology.
Supporting Materials
Full Text of Legislation H.R. 1210 
House Energy & Commerce Committee
Senate Health, Education, Labor & Pensions Committee
Related Bills
Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis Research, Cure, and Care Act of 2009: Full Text of Legislation
