Middle East Arthritis Foundation to host community event for World Arthritis Day in Dubai

The event will include free ultrasound scanning. Courtesy Middle East Arthritis Foundation

To mark World Arthritis Day, which takes place globally on October 12, the Middle East Arthritis Foundation will host its annual event at Shangri-La Hotel in Dubai on October 13.

The event hopes to raise awareness of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) and to encourage physical activity among people in the community.

This year's global theme is 'Don't Delay, Connect Today' and will include a variety of activities, such as free ultrasound scans, free bone-density tests, a motivation session with a life coach and a session on managing stress and staying positive. It will also include an interactive quiz and panel discussion on arthritis.

With arthritis affecting millions of people worldwide, it is important that preventive measures are taken. In the UAE alone, studies have shown a delay in diagnosis of 12 months due to lack of awareness of the disease. With early diagnosis, treatment deformity and disability can be prevented.

Dr Humeira Badsha, from the Middle East Arthritis Foundation, says the activities have been designed to support people living with arthritis to take control of this condition, and take positive steps to overcome challenges to live a healthy and active lifestyle.

“It is vital that we listen to the constantly evolving needs of people living with arthritis and other chronic conditions to help reduce their pain and improve their quality of life," she said.

"We are engaging with patients and their families to better understand their clinical, economic and social needs to help them progress on their health-care journey and to continue to raise awareness of the treatment options available for them."

All activities will be free and open to the public. The event starts at 9am. To register, contact the Middle East Arthritis Foundation on 050 534 3182 (limited places available). For more information visit www.arthritis.ae/wad or www.facebook.com/EmiratesArthritisFoundation

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