Media Release
3 September 2014
Health before socks on Fathers’ Day!
“As you pass over the socks for Father’s Day this year remember that if your Dad is one of the 89,000 men living with
gout his feet may be tender. If it’s a garden voucher you are thinking about and your Dad has been complaining about
back pain for months maybe suggest a doctors visit as well” suggested Arthritis New Zealand Chief Executive Sandra
Kirby.
There are 530,000 New Zealanders living with arthritis and its one of the leading causes of disability in New Zealand.
Dad could be among their number. , Perhaps he has been told it is his fault or his age. Challenge that.
The good news is that gout – and other forms of arthritis – can be managed with the right medication and treatment. But
for this to happen, one first needs to seek help.
“If you think Dad might have undiagnosed arthritis, show him you care by suggesting a visit to the doctor, before you
give him his socks. You could make it the most worthwhile Father’s Day of his life,” concluded Ms Kirby.
Arthritis New Zealand is the national organisation focussed on raising awareness of the more than 140 different forms of
arthritis, advocating for those with the condition, and providing advice and support.
For confidential advice and support, phone 0800 663 463, or visit our website: www.arthritis.org.nz
About Arthritis New Zealand
• Arthritis New Zealand is a national organisation whose mission is to improve the health and well-being of people
who are affected by arthritis.
• There are 530,000 New Zealanders living with arthritis
• There are more than 140 different forms of arthritis of which osteoarthritis, gout and rheumatoid arthritis are
the most prevalent
• You might be surprised to learn there are over 1,000 children and young people living with the pain of
arthritis.
• ‘Arthritis it could surprise you.’
• Chances are someone you love lives with arthritis.
• Arthritis is one of the leading cause of disability in our country, and there is no cure. It can affect anyone,
at any age, at any time.
• There are 17,940 people receiving sickness or invalids benefits as a result of musculo-skeletal conditions, the
bulk of which will be arthritis.
• Arthritis New Zealand receives only 12 per cent of its funding from government agencies. Without the generosity
of our donors and volunteers, we wouldn’t be able to help the over 530,000 New Zealanders who live with the pain of
arthritis every day.
• Arthritis New Zealand is the leader in the provision of awareness, education, services and advocacy for
arthritis in New Zealand.
ENDS