Interview with Arthritis Foundation President and CEO Dr. Jack Klippel

What is Lets Move Together?

Interviewer: Hello and welcome to the first Lets Move Together podcast. Im Shannon Brown, an Arthritis Walk participant in Atlanta, Georgia. Im here today with rheumatologist, Dr. Jack Klippel, President and CEO of the Arthritis Foundation.
Hello Dr. Klippel and thank you for joining us for the launch of Lets Move Together.

Dr. Klippel: Hello, thank you for having me.

Interviewer: Dr. Klippel, can you tell us a little bit about Lets Move Together?

Dr. Klippel: Of course. Lets Move Together is a nationwide movement led by the Arthritis Foundation that encourages people to move to prevent or treat arthritis. Its about the overall good health and empowerment gained through every day movement and overcoming the obstacles of arthritis.

Interviewer: Why did the Arthritis Foundation create Lets Move Together?

Dr. Klippel: We wanted to increase how we were connecting with our audience  both current volunteers and the general public. Our main contact with many people is through our signature fundraising event, the Arthritis Walk. But we want to interact with people all the time, not just once a year. So weve created this movement, Lets Move Together, so that we can work with people year-round to prevent and treat arthritis. Were very excited.

Interviewer: Why is it so important that people connect with the Arthritis Foundation through Lets Move Together?

Dr. Klippel: Many people are unaware that by moving as little as 30 minutes a day, they can treat and even prevent arthritis. Lets Move Together asks people to make a commitment by taking the first step toward a lifetime of physical activity. Its also about taking a stand in the fight against arthritis for yourself and your loved ones with the disease.
The Lets Move Together campaign aims to engage people in an ongoing conversation about arthritis and encourage them to move daily for better health.

Interviewer: Dr. Klippel, you mentioned the fight against arthritis, what impact is this disease having on society to-date?

Dr. Klippel: Arthritis now affects 46 million Americans, thats one in five people, and costs the U.S. economy $128 billion each year. By 2030, it is projected that the number of Americans with arthritis will balloon to 67 million. As you can imagine, the costs associated with providing care for this many people will have a profound impact on the health care system. Its also important to note that arthritis is not just an old persons disease  people of all ages are affected by arthritis, and the Arthritis Foundation is fighting the disease everyday.
What else do you want our listeners to know about the Lets Move Together movement?

Dr. Klippel: We can make a difference today, tomorrow and in the future simply by promising to move daily for better health. Joining Lets Move Together is a promise to yourself and your loved ones that you are committed to move in the fight against arthritis.

Interviewer: What are some ways people can get moving today?

Dr. Klippel: Its simple-- walking just 30 minutes, or 10 minutes three times a day can ease joint pain, improve mobility and reduce fatigue often associated with arthritis. But thats not all; swimming, dancing and walking your dog are all great ways to get moving too! Whatever you can do, you should do everyday.

Interviewer: Are there other ways to get involved in the movement?

Dr. Klippel: Yes. By joining Lets Move Together you can also commit to walk in your local 2009 Arthritis Walk. You can find out more information about your local Arthritis Walk and ways to donate your time or money by visiting www.letsmovetogether.org .

Interviewer: Thank you Dr. Klippel, this is a great cause and is sure to make an impact in the fight against arthritis. As a volunteer for the organization and someone whose family has been affected by arthritis, I am excited to get involved.
Listeners, be sure to visit www.letsmovetogether.org for more information about this new movement for the Arthritis Foundation. And stay tuned for upcoming podcasts featuring tips on how you can move everyday with Lets Move Together!

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