| Early Diagnosis Is Key For Pacific Health |
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Arthritis is responsible for higher number of hospital visits for Pacific people according to recently released research. Lupus, along with high rates of gout, is causing elevated numbers of hospital stays. Lupus and gout are both forms of arthritis that occur more frequently in the Pacific population. Arthritis New Zealand calls for greater awareness of these conditions by doctors to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment for these conditions.Arthritis New Zealand emphasises the impact arthritis has on the Pacific community’s health with the new research that the Public hospital discharge data from July 2000 to December 2002 and population data from the 2001 Census shows that Pacific peoples were six times more likely to have a diagnosis of gout and four to five times of lupus. Gout is very common, it is estimated that 14% of Pacific men experience gout. This compares with a reported 1 to 5% prevalence of gout in populations of European origin. Men with gout have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Although lupus and gout are completely different forms of arthritis, the message remains the same, early diagnosis and treatments are highly important for both forms. Sandra Kirby, Chief Executive of Arthritis New Zealand urges the Pacific community to come forward: “It is well known that Pacific people have poorer health outcomes than other people in New Zealand, we need to take steps to rectify this urgently.” The role of the GP and primary health are also important. “Our GPs and primary care organisations also need to take responsibility for our Pacific people’s health by checking for symptoms of gout and lupus amongst Pacific clients.” There are treatments available to help arthritis conditions like lupus and gout. “Gout, in particular, can be effectively managed by taking medications and implementing healthy changes to a person’s diet and lifestyle.” N.B
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