With September being Arthritis Awareness Month, Arctic Radio News reached out to Arthritis Research Canada to talk more about the disease.

 

Dr. Diane Lacaille, the scientific director with the organization, states that arthritis affects six million Canadians of all ages, and certain types of arthritis such as rheumatoid and osteoarthritis are more common in women.

 

Lacaille explains that family history and genetics can play a role in a person developing arthritis, but adds that there are ways people can reduce their risk of being diagnosed with the joint disorder.

 

Lacaille adds that arthritis disproportionally effects Indigenous people, and they are more likely to develop a severe form of arthritis.

 

Lacaille goes on to say that there are ways for people to reduce their risk for developing arthritis, such as maintaining a healthy body weight and not smoking.

 

You can learn more about arthritis by visiting arthritisresearch.ca