Annual “Alive and Well” Patient Education Program:
Latest Advances in Rheumatoid Arthritis

On May 5, 2010 the Arthritis Center of UPMC had their annual “Alive and Well” patient education program at the LHAS Auditorium, “Latest Advances in Rheumatoid Arthritis”. There were over 150 attendees including patients, their families and arthritis health professionals. The participants were welcomed by Dr. Terry Starz who introduced the program and provided oversight in the tremendous advances that have been made in the diagnosis and management of rheumatoid arthritis. Dr. Doug Lienesch then reviewed the signs and symptoms of arthritis. Dr. Paul Killian discussed pharmacologic treatment of RA and Jane Brandenstein, PT reviewed the incorporation of physical activities in arthritis care. Dr. Marc Levesque provided an oversight of research in rheumatoid arthritis and then Dr. Ted Osial moderated a question and answer session.

The program was videoed and is available on the Arthritis Foundation website. LHAS was kind enough to continue the support of this program in partnership with the UPMC Arthritis Center and the Western Pennsylvania Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation. The response to the program was very positive and it provided the participants with a message of hope and help in managing the very challenging problem of rheumatoid arthritis.

Source: Dr. Terry Starz