Patients with rheumatoid arthritis and their families are being invited to hear about the latest research happening in Bath, and the treatment and support available, at a free event next month.
The event will be held at the Bath Royal Literary and Scientific Institution in Queen Square on Thursday 19th April.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term condition that causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. The symptoms usually affect the hands, feet and wrists.
Some people with rheumatoid arthritis also experience problems in other parts of the body, or more general symptoms such as tiredness and weight loss.
The information day is part of the Patient and Public Engagement initiative run by the Bath Institute for Rheumatic Diseases (BIRD) and supported by the Royal National Hospital for Rheumatic Diseases.
Bath has always been at the forefront of bone and joint disease research, education and patient care, as part of its history as a city with thermal waters since at least Roman times, and with one of the first national specialist hospitals in the country founded in 1738.
Mel Brooke, Director of PPE, said: “People can feel very anxious or isolated when they are diagnosed. Finding other people to talk to is an important means of support and we help facilitate this through a range of events and services.
“The information day is a chance to network, be inspired and have a voice, along with opportunities to get involved in research happening in Bath and to learn about new medicines and treatment from leading specialists in the area.”
To book, email [email protected]. There are also free information days planned in the areas of Lupus, Ankylosing Spondylitis and Fibromyalgia later this year.
BIRD exists to support arthritis research, education and patient engagement. It funds research projects in rheumatic diseases which help to promote and advance medical knowledge; improve treatments for patients; and encourage collaboration between clinicians and research scientists.
Only one person in fifty escapes some form of rheumatic complaint in their lives.
