The first rheumatology day centre in the State, providing relief to sufferers of arthritis, was opened today by the Minister for Health.
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The Minister for Health, Mr Michael Martin
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The day centre is based in St James's Hospital, Dublin, andpatients will have access to an occupational therapist, rheumatology nurse andin time, a chiropodist at the hospital.
Access to the day centre will be free for all patients with diagnosed rheumatological and arthritis conditions.
Speaking at today's launch, Mr Martin said arthritis affects 13 per cent of Irish people, and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects nearly oneper cent.
"RA is a rapidly disabling condition and is the leading cause of physical disability in Ireland," he said.
As a chronic disease RA can have a strong effect on the sufferers' emotional lives, Mr Martin added. He said the centre will offer a unique,multi-disciplinary approach to treatment.
Initially the centre will cater for the community surrounding St James's but over time it is hoped to extend the service to a national one.
