Media Release
10 October 2014
World Arthritis Day: Living Better, Ageing Well
“Remember those with arthritis!” is Arthritis New Zealand Chief Executive Sandra Kirby’s message for World Arthritis
Day.
World Arthritis Day is celebrated every year on 12 October. It provides an opportunity for those with arthritis to have
their voices heard, and the opportunity to highlight some of the issues they face.
“One of the biggest issues facing people living with arthritis is the lack of public awareness of the impact of this
chronic health condition. It is a timely reminder to all that arthritis is the leading cause of disability in New
Zealand for young and old.”
“For more than half a million people in New Zealand who are living with arthritis knowing that with early diagnosis and
treatment they can live better and age well will be great news.”
Ms Kirby says that World Arthritis day is a positive day, and an opportunity to highlight the fact that although there
isn’t yet a cure for any form of arthritis with the right support most people with arthritis can live active and
fulfilling lives.
“The theme of World Arthritis Day this year is Living Better, Ageing Well. We are heartened by the promise of more
funding from the new government for arthritis and look forward to working with the new Minister of Health to ensure that
people with arthritis in New Zealand can do just that,” Ms Kirby concluded.
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 1,000 children living with arthritis.
• There are more than 140 different forms of arthritis of which osteoarthritis, gout and rheumatoid arthritis are
the most prevalent.
• Arthritis is one of the leading causes of disability in our country.
• 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 those 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