To partner with others to improve the lives of people with arthritis. The OAAA is a dynamic organization comprised of a diverse segment of our society. It is great as an academic organization to work with foundations, community organizations, and community fitness programs.

2.  What do you think is the most important issue today related to osteoarthritis?

That’s a hard one to answer. The top three in my opinion are: i) exercise, ii) obesity, and iii) injury prevention. (Interesting how these are prominent areas in the OAAA.)  But from my perspective, which is a bit biased given my background, the most important thing is behavior. We really need to develop strategies (behaviors) that help people engage in activities that we know prevent incident disease and improve disease outcomes. We really haven’t figured out the best way to support behavior change with this population.

3. How does your organization’s work connect to issues in osteoarthritis?

We are developing and testing ways to optimize people’s activity levels, specifically engaging in evidence-based arthritis programs as well as enhancing people’s abilities to work and engage in community life.

4. What is a headline you’d like to see about osteoarthritis in five years?

Everyone with arthritis is exercising and managing their weight!!!

5. What is one interesting fact you’d like people to know about your organization?

We’ve brought information about arthritis research to over 7000 people.