THE ARTHRITIS SOCIETY

Attention: Health/Medical Editor, Lifestyle Editor, News Editor

TORONTO / ON / MEDIA ADVISORY--(Marketwire - Aug. 28, 2008) - September is Arthritis Awareness Month, a time The Arthritis Society heightens awareness of the disease and raise funds for arthritis research and programs. Arthritis affects nearly 4.5 million Canadians and is the leading cause of disability in this country. Sixty per cent of people with arthritis are under the age of 65, making arthritis a serious risk for people of all ages.

Throughout September, The Arthritis Society will be releasing information of interest to all Canadians:

On September 2, a news release will draw attention to the arthritis crisis in Canada. There are already a staggering number of Canadians with arthritis and, over the next two decades, the arthritis population is projected to reach over 6 million.

In mid-September, a news release will highlight how The Arthritis Society has helped fund arthritis research breakthroughs over the past 60 years. This research has resulted in better ways of managing and treating arthritis. And, as more is learned about this disease, there is greater potential for finding a cure.

At the end of September, a news release will present a summary of the impact of arthritis on health care professionals, policy-makers and members of the public.

Interview opportunities are available with:

Steven McNair, President and CEO of The Arthritis Society, to discuss the impact of arthritis on Canadians.
Arthritis researchers across Canada to discuss the outcomes of their research projects.
Medical specialists across Canada to discuss the impact of arthritis on their patients.
People with arthritis across Canada to discuss their experiences with this devastating disease.

Look out for these news items and call us for more information.

/For further information: www.arthritis.ca/


IN: HEALTH