Patients in Wales with Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) need a higher standard of care according to the organisation which campaigns on their behalf. The National Ankylosing Spondylitis Society (NASS) has taken its campaign to the National Assembly for Wales where Assembly Members were asked to sign a pledge to support people with AS.
Ankylosing Spondylitis is a painful and progressive form of inflammatory arthritis affecting one adult in every 200. The average delay between onset of the disease and correct diagnosis is eight and a half years. NASS is calling for earlier diagnosis and for appropriate care and treatment for patients.
Jeff Cuthbert AM, Assembly Member for Caerphilly, said:
“I was pleased to welcome NASS to the Senedd as we all have an important role to play to raise awareness of Ankylosing Spondylitis. Early diagnosis and good treatment is vital as the average time until diagnosis in Wales is eight and a half years, which can severely effect the impact and effectiveness of treatment.”
Debbie Cook, Director of NASS said:
“We were delighted to take our campaign to Wales and for the first time to the National Assembly for Wales. This was an ideal opportunity to raise awareness of AS and to highlight our campaign for early diagnosis and a higher standard of care for patients.”
The Health Minister Mark Drakeford AM addressed the “Living with AS” event at the Senedd and said that he endorsed the emphasis that NASS puts on informing and empowering individuals with AS to better manage their symptoms and live full and active lives.
Guests also heard from rheumatology consultant Dr Zoe McLaren of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board and S4C children’s presenter Tudur Phillips, who was diagnosed with AS two years ago. The event also featured a video message from Huw Irranca-Davies MP who has been managing the condition for several years. His colleague in Ogmore, Janice Gregory AM sponsored the reception.
