REPLACEMENT AMONG AFRICAN-AMERICANS WITH OSTEOARTHRITIS? M.K. Figaro 1 , P. Williams-Russo 1 ; 1 Cornell University, New York, NY PURPOSE: Total Knee Replacement (TKR) improves mobility, decreases pain, and improves quality of life for patients with severe knee osteoarthritis (OA). Despite the higher prevalence and higher reported disability of knee OA among Blacks, whites are over 1.5 times more likely to have TKR than Blacks. This study examined beliefs of Harlem Blacks with OA regarding TKR, including its efficacy and safety. METHODS: Community-dwelling older adults were recruited from churches, senior centers or other social networks in Harlem. In-person interviews elicited familiarity with others in the community who had TKR, perceived knowledge of TKR, referral to specialists, concerns and beliefs regarding surgery. We also assessed demographic data and severity of OA using the Western Ontario and McMaster Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). RESULTS: Women made up 84% of the sample of 65 patients. The mean age was 73, with a mean duration of symptoms of 9 years; 61% had at least a high school education and 45% had an income < $10,000 in 1999; 99% of subjects had Medicare insurance. Subjects had a mean WOMAC score of 56 +18, indicating high levels of OA disability; 45% had been referred to specialist. Table 1 summarizes major factors and concerns.