Fed: Few arthritis sufferers aware of new treatments survey

AAP General News (Australia)
04-03-2000
Fed: Few arthritis sufferers aware of new treatments survey

A survey's revealed that more than two thirds of Australians with arthritis endure
symptoms that limit their daily activities.

The findings from the Arthritis Foundation of Australia show that nearly a third admitted
to difficulty washing and dressing and three-quarters had experienced pain and discomfort
in the previous week.

Royal Melbourne Hospital specialist, DR GEOFF MCCOLL, says nearly half of those who
experienced severe levels of pain had stopped taking their medication due to side effects.

Speaking at the beginning of Arthritis Week, Dr MCCOLL says the survey shows there's
a significant degree of silent suffering among the 2.5 million Australians affected by
arthritis.

AAP RTV dep/am/dmc

KEYWORD: ARTHRITIS (CANBERRA)

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