Arthritis Foundation, Georgia Chapter and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia Announce Partnership

ATLANTA, Feb. 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- The Arthritis Foundation today announced a new relationship with Atlanta-based Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGA), who will serve as the local charity's presenting Arthritis Walk sponsor. As the presenting sponsor of the Arthritis Walk Atlanta, BCBSGA will provide financial support, as well as onsite support by mobilizing its more than 3,000 employees throughout the state to participate in their local Arthritis Walk.

"Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia's generosity allows the Arthritis Foundation to re-focus a considerable amount of its resources back to its mission of raising awareness, funding research and providing services to the more than 1.8 millions Georgians – including 9,200 children – who are living with arthritis," said Rob Shaw, president and CEO of the Arthritis Foundation, Georgia Chapter. "This unique relationship speaks volumes about BCBSGA's commitment to have a positive impact in the lives of people living with one of the more than 100 forms of arthritis."

As the nation's most common cause of disability, arthritis affects more than 46 million people nationally. In Georgia alone, arthritis costs the economy $3.9 billion in medical expenses.

"At BCBSGA we continually look for ways to positively impact the well-being of the people we serve and the overall health of our communities," said Monye Connolly, president, BCBSGA. "We have aligned with the Arthritis Foundation in an effort to help the millions of Georgians living with arthritis improve their overall quality of life."

The Arthritis Walk-Atlanta is slated for May 22, 2010 at Atlantic Station in Midtown Atlanta. The event raises desperately needed funds for arthritis research, programs and services that will directly support those affected by arthritis. Offerings include a one and three-mile course followed by lunch and entertainment for the whole family. For many, the Arthritis Walk is their first step in taking control of their arthritis. Exercise, especially walking, is a particularly effective tool in managing arthritis.

About the Arthritis Foundation

The Arthritis Foundation is the leading health organization addressing the needs of some 46 million Americans living with arthritis, the nation's most common cause of disability. Founded in 1948, with headquarters in Atlanta, the Arthritis Foundation has multiple service points located throughout the country.

The Arthritis Foundation is the largest private, not-for-profit contributor to arthritis research in the world, funding more than $415 million in research grants since 1948. The foundation helps individuals take control of arthritis by providing public health education; pursuing public policy and legislation; and conducting evidence-based programs to improve the quality of life for those living with arthritis. Information is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-283-7800 or www.arthritis.org.

About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia:

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia, Inc. and Blue Cross and Blue Shield Healthcare Plan of Georgia, Inc. are independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association^® . The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.  Additional information about Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia is available at www.bcbsga.com.

SOURCE Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia