In observance of World Arthritis Day, Middle East Arthritis Foundation (MEAF),the leading non-profit organization in the Middle East dedicated to the prevention, control and cure of arthritis hosted its signature webinar series to create awareness about arthritis.

Held from 10th to 15thOctober 2021, the six-day webinar series walked participants through information on various themes related to arthritis, including tips on managing pain and overcoming physical, mental and emotional effects of arthritis. Medical experts and meditation practitioners from across the region hosted the series providing valuable insights regarding symptoms, stress management, healthy eating, medicines and exercises, and other healing techniques. 

Commenting on the success of the webinar series, Dr. Humeira Badsha, Founding Member of the Middle East Arthritis Foundation, and a leading Rheumatologist said “Depression and anxiety are common comorbidities in people living with rheumatoid arthritis, with perhaps as many as 16.8% of people with RA experiencing major depressive disorder and 25 to 46% living with anxiety. The idea of educating people through webinar series is to help them learn to live with it.We are glad to see a notable response from the community with regards to this. Detailed information shared by panelists can be instrumental in managing physical, mental and emotional effects of arthritis.”

Health experts also laid out some common myths associated with the disease and dispelled those misconceptions to give a clearer picture supported by facts and figures.

The panelists unfolded interesting topics related to latest research, innovation and technologies, therapies, and treatments present around the world to combat the pain. A session on low-impact exercises such as yoga, dance and other meditation practices was also on focus.

“More than 20% of the UAE population suffers from one or the other kind of arthritis. Despite its pervasiveness, we still have a long way to go in creating awareness about the disease and its many forms. What we do know for sure is that the risks associated with arthritis can be reduced by embracing a lifestyle that includes a well-balanced diet, regular exercise and meditation, and managing a positive outlook by learning to live with it.” Dr. Humeira added.

When living with arthritis, it is essential to stay informed on everything you can do to best cope with the disease. To empower arthritis patients, Dr. Humeira Badsha, Founding member of the Middle East Arthritis Foundation & a well-renowned Rheumatologist, has written a thoughtful book titled “The Wellness Guide to Arthritis”. This beneficial book can guide readers with the different forms of arthritis and their symptoms to look out for, up-to-date information on new treatment methods, approaches to coping with pain, everyday tips to manage the side effects, along with inputs from Arthritis Warriors on real-life coping strategies.

The Foundation is grateful to its partners Lilly, Pfizer, Novartis, Sandoz, Abbvie, Newbridge and Amgen in extending their support to help create public awareness for the greater good of the community.

The Foundation supports people of all ages living with arthritis and hosts several events across the year to raise awareness for the management and treatment of this life-changing chronic condition.

For more information about MEAF and to stay updated about future events, please visit Facebook: Emirates Arthritis Foundation or http://www.arthritis.ae/ or call +971 50 534 3182.

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