Written question asked by Claire Curtis-Thomas (Labour) on Tuesday, 24 June 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 3 July 2003. It was answered by Stephen Ladyman (Labour) on Thursday, 3 July 2003 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, how many working days were lost in (a) England, (b) South Sefton, (c) Southport and (d) Formby because of arthritis and related conditions in each year since 1999; how much he estimates the lost work days owing to arthritis cost the economy; and what action is being taken to reduce the number of work days lost because of arthritis. - No figures and inc fact that we do not collect figures centrally covering lost working days for people with arthritis.

Answer: Mrs. Curtis-Thomas: To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many working days were lost in (a) England, (b) South Sefton, (c) Southport and (d) Formby because of arthritis and related conditions in each year since 1999; how much he estimates the lost work days owing to arthritis cost the economy; and what action is being taken to reduce the number of work days lost because of arthritis. [122236] Dr. Ladyman: We do not collect figures centrally covering lost working days for people with arthritis. We want to help people with arthritis to remain in, or return to, work wherever this is possible and appropriate for them. Physiotherapists and occupational therapists play a crucial part in the rehabilitation of people suffering from arthritis and related conditions and the focus will be to restore the person to their optimal function, including returning to work, where appropriate.

Secondary information