Preseli Pembrokeshire AM Paul Davies has recently hosted a Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) awareness event at the Senedd. The event aimed to gain a better understanding of Rheumatoid Arthritis and its health and socio-economic impact. There are approximately 400,000 people with RA in the UK and it has been estimated that RA costs the NHS at a UK level around £560 million a year, with the majority of the costs occurring in the secondary care.

"I was delighted to host the ABPI Rheumatoid Arthritis event," said Mr Davies.

"It was a wonderful opportunity to hear what people who deal with RA on a daily basis, be it as a sufferer, carer, healthcare professional or support worker, feel can be done to improve the current situation. Through events like this, the Assembly is in a strong position going forward to address key policies regarding conditions like Rheumatoid Arthritis and amend or prioritise areas that need further attention.

"As an Assembly Member for a largely rural constituency, I am often contacted by constituents who are incurring delays for treatment or must make lengthy journeys to access appropriate treatment. It is essential that adequate services are available to people with these conditions and I will continue to promote this issue in the Assembly Chamber at every available opportunity."