Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States, affecting 50 million adults and 300,000 children. Of the many forms, osteoarthritis (OA) affects 27 million adults (Arthritis Foundation). While there is research on student athletes related to OA as it affects their performance and ability, no research could be identified that indicates the prevalence of OA in rural/farm youth. Agriculture involves many physically demanding tasks, often requiring farm/ranch youth to work above and beyond their bodies’ capabilities. Such activities put them at danger of joint injury, stress, and strain and become precursors to OA as these individuals age. The goal of this one-hour webinar is to identify reasons why farm youth may be more susceptible to joint injury and strain, describe outline methods for outreach and education to rural youth from a prevention standpoint, and introduce other educational resources available for use in these areas. Topics include: Common risk factors associated with early-onset OA in youth OA prevention and education strategies for youth in their community A youth classroom lesson plan and online learning program Assistive technologies to assist in lowering strain and managing arthritis pain in agricultural work Resources for additional information from leading arthritis research organizations Our Presenter: Amber D. Wolfe, M.S., joined the National AgrAbility project team in 2009 as the AgrAbility project coordinator for the Arthritis Foundation. Her work on the arthritis and agriculture project covers both state and national levels and is focused on rural audiences of all ages and experiences. She serves as a resource for rural arthritis issues. Amber provides training to professionals and consumers via rural arthritis workshops and also assists in developing resources related to rural arthritis. Amber has brought her experiences with 4-H and FFA youth into the AgrAbility area by working with rural youth to prevent the early-onset of osteoarthritis in their generation. A question & answer period will follow the presentation. To participate in this free webinar, click here to access the online registration form by Friday, July 24. Instructions for accessing the session will be sent to registrants by Monday, July 27. Please pass on this invitation to others you believe may be interested. Contact AgrAbility at 800-825-4264 or email agrability@agrability.org if you have questions.

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