Rheumatic disorders and future EU measures

29.4.2004

WRITTEN QUESTION P-1428/04
by Torben Lund (PSE)
to the Commission

Rheumatic disorders are a major and growing problem. It is expected that up to 50% of the population of Europe will, at some time or another, suffer from acute or chronic rheumatism. It causes sufferers great distress and pain and, at the same time, reduces the age of retirement from the employment market, increases absence from work due to illness and entails additional hospital admissions.

 

Will the Commission, therefore, say what support is provided for research into rheumatism, including research into rheumatic disorders and innovative treatments, under the 6th framework programme and other areas of policy, and what other measures are envisaged?

 

Finally, will the Commission say whether it intends to initiate national action plans for the prevention and treatment of rheumatic disorders, and the rehabilitation of patients, and how any experience gained might be incorporated into future EU measures?