Prospectus and Invitation to

The International Conference for the Bone and Joint Decade 2000-2010

Tokyo, Japan on April 17-19, 2002

−50^th Anniversary of the Initiation of Rheumatism Control Program in Japan−

Rheumatic diseases are a major cause of disability and morbidity, and have become one of the most pressing health problems worldwide. Unfortunately, little attention has been paid to these disabling disorders, and their impact is not reflected in the government policies of many countries. For example, treatment for completely curing rheumatoid arthritis has still been developed, and the appropriate care system for disabled patient is not provided in many countries. Much more effort should be made to promote investigation, control, care and prevention of musculoskeletal diseases.

In Japan, as in other countries of the world, a large number of people are suffering from rheumatic disorders, especially rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Among them, rheumatoid arthritis draws the greatest concern. The number of such patients is estimated at about 700,000, 80% of whom are women and 10% are bedridden. Given these circumstances, rheumatic disorders are becoming an increasingly serious medical, as well as social and political, problem in Japan.

Japan Rheumatism Foundation (previously named Japan Rheumatism Association) was established 50 years ago, and approved by the Ministry of Health and Welfare of the Japanese Government in 1987. The ultimate aim of our Foundation is to contribute to and promote scientific research, educate rheumatologists and health care workers, support affected patients, and promote awareness of rheumatic disorders throughout Japan.

The International movement of the Bone and Joint Decade 2000-2010 was first initiated in Sweden and supported by the United Nations and the World Health Organization. For this purpose, many countries have already initiated vigorous activities including Japan. Our Foundation intends to contribute, support, promote and encourage this global movement to fight against rheumatism, and plans to hold a meeting, supported by the Japanese Government in Tokyo, Japan, on April 17-19, 2002. At this meeting, delegates engaged in the control program of rheumatic disorders, including administrators, patients and supporters, will be invited from countries all over the world in order to exchange information, experiences and ideas, and to discuss and produce future plans to combat this global burden of musculoskeletal diseases. Our Foundation would appreciate it very much if you would agree to our plan, as well as cooperate and participate in our meeting in Tokyo in 2002.

  September 1, 2001                                                             

Yuichi Shiokawa, M.D.

                                                                        Chairman of the Board

Japan Rheumatism Foundation