Middle East educational initiative launched in support of World Arthritis Day (WAD)

The educational initiative led by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals involves a series of radio interviews with leading rheumatologists from across the Middle East region. The objectives of the radio campaign are to highlight the significant disease burden and crippling effect on the quality of life of arthritis sufferers.

Every October 12th, people from around the world join efforts to celebrate World Arthritis Day. World Arthritis Day aims to raise awareness of Arthritis through the education of healthcare professionals, sufferers and the general public. Additionally, it also aims to increase the number of arthritis support projects globally. By raising awareness of arthritis, WAD will help ensure that Arthritis sufferers know and have excess to available support networks. The 2006 World Arthritis Day is focusing on exercise with a campaign theme of, 'Take Action!'

Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis are among the most common arthritic conditions that affect millions of people across the Globe. Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic disease that affects 1 percent of the population, and three times as many women as men. It is an inflammatory disease, in which the body's immune system attacks the joints, such as those in the hands, knees, elbows, and ankles and the surrounding soft tissues, with potentially crippling consequences.

'There are many different types of Arthritis, and the disease is easily misdiagnosed. Some of the Arthritis diseases can produce crippling effects, leaving the patient feeling powerless and depressed,' says Dr. Ayman Al Mofti, Arthritis & Rheumatology Specialist at the American Hospital, Dubai. 'World Arthritis Day is a great opportunity for doctors, healthcare professionals and the general public to voice their support for initiatives that help educate people on Arthritis.'

UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan and Lebanon radio stations are all participating in the initiative and will air a 15 -20 minute discussion on Arthritis on October 12th. The discussion will entail general information on Arthritis, its symptoms, different types, causes and potential solutions to improve the quality of life of those suffering from arthritis in the Middle East.