Rheumatism affects one in five Belgians

The Fonds voor Wetenschappelijk Reuma Onderzoek (FWRO) has found that one out of  five Belgians has rheumatic problems and one out of 20 is functionally limited by a serious, chronic disorder. About 80,000 Belgians suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, 75% of whom are younger women, and 150.000 inhabitants have arthritis.

 FWRO has launched an awarness campaign under the banner “Samen tegen reuma, hand in hand” (Together Against Rheumatism, Hand in Hand). So-called mega-trucks are crossing the country and distributing free chocolate. Rheumatoid arthritis affects the joints and connective tissue, particularly the spine, feet and hands, which can become crippled over time.

 FWRO is emphasising the importance of scientific research. About 14 years ago, drugs came on the market that deal directly with the mechanisms that maintain the infection. These medicines have drastically improved the quality of life of many patients. There are now several new pharmaceuticals in the pipeline, including against lupus, scleroderma and vasculitis.

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