Media Releases
Call to combine gout and diabetes testing
Arthritis New Zealand has joined forces with Diabetes New Zealand to call for uric acid testing for gout to be included alongside blood sugar tests.
High levels of uric acid in the blood can cause painful gout attacks and lead to long term joint damage and disability if left untreated. Gout is more common in New Zealand than anywhere else in the world with very high rates in Māori and Pacific men. The disease is closely associated with diabetes and heart disease.
Health system hardly the ‘envy of the world’ for people with arthritis
On the contrary, Kiwis with arthritis envy patients in other countries, says Arthritis New Zealand’s CEO Sandra Kirby. Health Minister Jonathan Coleman said on Tuesday that our health system is the envy of the world and performing well compared with other countries....
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New health service helps people with osteoarthritis
A new online programme available in your area is helping people manage their osteoarthritis and share with others who have the condition.
The programme, called MOA (Managing OsteoArthritis), provides access to an online community and a personal health coach. People can also track their mood or symptoms, keep a food and exercise diary, and access other information and resources via the web and mobile app.
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“More please” – New arthritis specialist is welcome, but not enough
Palmerston North Hospital has employed a new rheumatologist, bringing much-needed relief to patients suffering from chronic pain. MidCentral District Health Board confirmed a female rheumatologist would be starting in late July.
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Arthritis won’t slow down trail-blazing marathon runner Nicola Wearne
Fresh from a marathon at the top of the world, extreme athlete Nicola Wearne is already dreaming about her next adventure. The Tauranga mother of two, who was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at age 38, has just completed the Everest Marathon, a “brutal” run from...
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Health supplements should be safe and effective
Arthritis New Zealand says health supplements like Arborvitae, which has been blocked from entering New Zealand, must be safe for the country as well as effective for the individual. Arborvitae is made in Australia and marketed as an arthritis pain reliever and health...
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James Lowe’s golden game
Congratulations to our Ambassador James Lowe who was named for the Māori All Blacks side to play the Lions on 17 June. James played his 50th game for the Chiefs against the Hurricanes this month as well. When James Lowe played his 50th rugby game for the Chiefs,...
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Genes to blame for gout, not food
Advances in genetic research into gout underline Arthritis New Zealand’s message to people living with this extremely painful disease. Gout causes excruciating pain and swelling in the joints of the hands and feet, usually the big toes. It’s the result of...
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Arthritis New Zealand delighted to have Governor General accept Patronage
Peter Larmer, President of Arthritis New Zealand, was delighted to announce to the attendees at the organisation’s AGM, that the Governor-General, Her Excellency The Rt Hon Dame Patsy Reddy has agreed to become the Patron of Arthritis New Zealand. Associate Professor...
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There will still be Arthritis New Zealand support in Manawatu
New Zealand generally has a shortage of rheumatologists. “Until recently Manawatu has been one of the better served areas of the country but this does highlight how quickly a situation can change” said Sandra Kirby, Chief Executive, Arthritis New Zealand. MidCentral...
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