Organized in 1948 as the Arthritis and Rheumatism Foundation, the organization's name was changed in 1964 to the Arthritis Foundation.[23] The following year, the American Rheumatism Association (ARA) merged with the Foundation. In 1965, an additional professional society, Allied Health Professions, was established within the Foundation; its name was changed to the Arthritis Health Professions Association (AHPA) in 1980. The American Juvenile Arthritis Organization (AJAO) was established in 1981 as a membership group within the Foundation; in 1991, AJAO became a council of the Foundation. In 1986, the ARA became a separate, independent organization and now is known as the American College of Rheumatol
EVENTS
Events[20] and programs run by the Arthritis Foundation help educate the public about the realities of arthritis, raise funds and awareness, and encourage people with arthritis to manage their joint pain and improve overall health. Activities include nationwide Arthritis Walks events throughout the year[21] and Jingle Bell Runs/Walk …show more content…
Participants tell their stories and let Congress know that the disabling pain and cost of arthritis are unacceptable. They also urge elected officials to become a member of the Congressional Arthritis Caucus,[14] chaired by Reps. Sue Myrick, R-N.C., and Anna Eshoo, D-Calif. The caucus serves as a bipartisan forum to aid senators and representatives in working together to address arthritis.
The Arthritis Foundation promotes advocacy issues throughout the year to help elevate the disease to a national public health priority. Tools include state-by-state arthritis prevalence data, regular issue briefs, e-advocacy opportunities, a health care reform Q&A, and sample letters and tips to raise awareness about