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With one in five people in the UAE suffering from arthritis, it’s time to take preventative measures against this debilitating condition. Rheumatoid arthritis, for instance, is a chronic inflammatory arthritis with a higher likelihood of permanent disability. Because the disease is commonly presumed to be a type of arthritis, awareness is lacking, causing problems with disability, clinical care, and research funding. In the UAE alone, studies have shown a delay of 12 months in the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis due to lack of awareness of the disease. With early diagnosis, treatment deformity and disability can be prevented.

In honour of World Arthritis Day on October 13, the Middle East Arthritis Foundation (MEAF) will host a free public event featuring sessions with a life coach, free ultrasounds and healthy eating demonstrations, among other activities.

Dr Humeira Badsha, founding member of MEAF explains. ‘The activities at this year’s World Arthritis Day event 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 needs of people living with arthritis to help reduce their pain and improve their quality of life,’ she adds.

Don’t miss it: The event is at Shangri-La Dubai, on October 13, from 9am-6pm. Call 050 534 31 82 or visit arthritis.ae/wad to register.