Thanks Katie, no surprises there, i don't even use the 'arthritis' word anymore, it's just one symptom; i just say I've got an auto immune disease: stops all the silly suggestions 😊
Spot on Katie I don't bother using the Ra word now sick off the stupid comments I receive, so just tell them I've got rheumatoid disease or an automane disease
GP's could help by acknowledging RA actually exists & explaining the condition, not just telling people who complain of pain & swollen joints that "at your age you must expect aches & pains, take an aspirin!"
Which is was what my GP told me 20 years ago & that is still happening!
From personal experience I know how the general public regard RA ...I have been told many times "Well- you don't die from RA do you"?........well sometimes you might well have!
More imaginative truthful advertising would help...describe symptoms that many people don't recognise as RA......hence stop wasting time getting a diagnosis. I don't think jokey cartoon type ads show the severity of RA....show real people - explain how young people suffer......tell the truth...don't sugar coat RA. How many people know RA affects other parts of the body besides joints?
Look at recent cancer advertising campaigns they really hit home.
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