Action for arthritis!

Ms Bishop, who has portfolio responsibility for arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions, urged all Australians with arthritis to see their doctors and therapists to find out about the latest medical treatments and self-management strategies.

“Arthritis is not a disease of ageing,” Ms Bishop said. “The pain associated with arthritis should no longer be accepted as unavoidable for older people.”

“National Arthritis Week will help put Australians in all parts of the nation obtain information and services to assist them to prevent and reduce the effects of arthritis, including through better diet and regular physical exercise.”

“I urge people to take a further step if arthritis is suspected. Doctors and therapists can help find medical and self-management solutions, and the consultation could be covered by Medicare.”

“As well, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme makes the cost of important arthritis medicines more affordable for all people, whether they are in the general community or are concession card holders.”

Over half of women and a third of men in Australia have some form of arthritis by age 65. Arthritis can lead to disability due to restricted mobility from severe joint pain. Nearly half a million Australians have a disability due to arthritis and the resulting chronic pain.

As arthritis is a chronic disease affecting a large proportion of the Australian population, Australia’s health ministers have established Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Conditions as a National Health Priority.

The Australian Government is investing $11.5 million over four years under the Better Arthritis Care initiative to improve care and management of arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions. This will fund local projects to improve the care of people with arthritis, raise awareness on how to cope better with the condition and assist young people with arthritis.

In the past triennium (2000-03) the Australian Government, through the National Health and Medical Research Council, has provided more than $50 million for research in the arthritis and musculoskeletal National Health Priority area.

More information about activities during Arthritis Week is available from your local Arthritis Australia branch on 1800 011 041.