Arthritis Awareness Day: Join the Fight against Arthritis in St. Lucia
St. Lucia’s Ministry and Saint Lucia Arthritis and Lupus Association Join Forces to Raise Awareness
The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Elderly Affairs in St. Lucia has joined hands with the Saint Lucia Arthritis and Lupus Association (SLALA) to celebrate Arthritis Awareness Day on October 12, 2024. This effort is part of a global movement aimed at raising awareness about arthritis, a non-communicable, often chronic disease that significantly impacts the quality of life for many individuals in St. Lucia and around the world.
This year’s Arthritis Awareness Day is being observed under the theme “It’s In Your Hands; Take Action.” SLALA has planned a series of activities to engage the public and raise awareness.
Spreading Awareness and Empowering Individuals
Dr. Cleopatra Altenor-Theobalds, President of SLALA and a respected general practitioner, emphasized the importance of Arthritis Awareness Day in helping the public better understand the scope of the disease and how to take action.
"Arthritis is one of the largest causes of disability worldwide, and St. Lucia is no exception. Many people think of arthritis as a single condition, but in reality, there are over 100 different types. The most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, but other forms like lupus, gout, and juvenile arthritis also affect significant portions of the population," she stated.
By bringing attention to the diverse types of arthritis, we hope to empower individuals to take preventive measures such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, seeking early diagnosis, and accessing appropriate treatment.
Get Involved and Make a Difference
Dr. Altenor-Theobalds called on everyone to get involved in these activities. "Whether you wear blue on October 11 or join us for the sunrise walk on October 12, every action counts in spreading awareness about arthritis. By participating, you’re not only supporting those living with the condition but also contributing to ongoing projects that aim to improve care and education on arthritis in St. Lucia," Dr. AltenorTheobalds added.
Upcoming Events:
- "Wear Blue for Arthritis Day" on Friday, October 11, encouraging everyone to wear blue in support of the cause.
- World Arthritis Day on Saturday, October 12, with a relaxing sunrise walk along Vigie Beach.
- "Crazy Socks Day" on Friday, October 25, where participants can showcase their creativity by wearing fun socks and donating $1 per person to support arthritis awareness efforts.
Conclusion:
By taking action whether through education, participation in events, or simply spreading awareness, each person can contribute to improving the lives of those living with arthritis. Let’s come together this October to show our solidarity and make a meaningful impact.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- What is Arthritis Awareness Day?
Arthritis Awareness Day is an international event to raise awareness about arthritis, a non-communicable, often chronic disease. - What is the theme of this year’s Arthritis Awareness Day?
The theme is "It’s In Your Hands; Take Action." - How can I get involved in the celebration?
Attend the events listed above or simply spread awareness about arthritis by wearing blue on October 11 or participating in events.
About The Author
