Annette Brooke MP gives support to rheumatoid arthritis sufferers

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Mon 15th Oct 2007

Annette Brooke MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole backed efforts to raise awareness of rheumatoid arthritis at a drop-in event at the House of Commons on Wednesday 10 October, ahead of World Arthritis Day on 12 October.

This year's theme for World Arthritis Day is 'the small things which matter.' Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic and disabling autoimmune disease which affects around 387,000 people of all ages in England and Wales. There are almost 12,000 new cases every year, and approximately 12,000 children under the age of 16 have the juvenile form of the disease. Those living with the condition experience a lot of pain which can contribute to feelings of isolation, stress and depression. People with RA often struggle to do everyday tasks like getting around the home, travelling, shopping and looking after children - activities which most people take for granted.

Speaking at an event organised by the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society, Annette Brooke MP said:

'The small things in life really do matter but, for people with rheumatoid arthritis, even the most mundane of activities can be turned into Everyday Everests.

'It is important that we use the opportunity of World Arthritis Day to gain a better understanding of the challenges faced by the half million people in the UK with this disease.

'Having met with patients, charities and clinicians, I am more convinced than ever that we must take action to help people with rheumatoid arthritis. We can start by raising awareness of this debilitating condition, promoting greater understanding amongst all healthcare professionals and the public about signs and symptoms, as well as the steps which can be taken to enable those with RA to enjoy a better quality of life.'

Ailsa Bosworth, Chief Executive of the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society, said:

'I am absolutely delighted that Annette Brooke MP has backed efforts to raise awareness of rheumatoid arthritis. With the support of parliamentarians like Annette, we can deliver a step change in society's awareness of rheumatoid arthritis and move further towards our vision of equity of access to excellent care for all those living with the condition.'