COLUMBIA -- South Carolina is one of 12 states to get additional funding from the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for arthritis-related programs to reduce the diseases' impact in the state, the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control announced earlier this month.

"Arthritis affects nearly a million adults in South Carolina and is the leading cause of disability in our state," said Cora Plass, director of DHEC's healthy aging program.

Plass said the grant of some $500,000 marks the beginning of a new phase for CDC-supported state arthritis programs.

"Over the past five years, South Carolina has strengthened arthritis efforts, collaborated with partners, increased public awareness, monitored the burden of arthritis and delivered programs on a limited scale," she said.

Plass said DHEC's arthritis program relies on partner organizations to deliver programs to people with arthritis.

"The increased funding will allow us to expand our partnerships and create wider access to proven prevention programs for people with arthritis," she said. "Our partners include the Arthritis Foundation, Lt. Governor's Office on Aging and the state aging network."

Plass said during the first year, the Arthritis Foundation Self-Help Program, Living Well South Carolina, the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program and Enhance Fitness program will be implemented.

For more information on these programs, call 803-898-0760 or visit www.scdhec.gov/arthritis.

Special to The T&D

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