'B Me' Unveils Novel Design Concepts Reflecting The Needs Of Individuals With Rheumatoid Arthritis

Main Category: Arthritis
Also Included In: Pain / Anesthetics
Article Date: 15 Jun 2008 - 1:00 PDT

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A unique condom packet. A fashionable wrist splint. Clothing with innovative fasteners. These are just a few examples of design concepts unveiled today as part of the 'B Me' initiative, on display at the annual European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) congress in Paris.

'B Me' is an international awareness initiative that puts the spotlight on rheumatoid arthritis by using design concepts to challenge the way people think about living with this condition.

"The process of getting people who have rheumatoid arthritis together with designers is a fantastic opportunity," says Robert Johnstone, President of Arthritis and Rheumatism International. "It creates designs that help integrate people back into mainstream society, rather than simply addressing a medical problem."

'B Me' was developed with input and collaboration from people with rheumatoid arthritis, advocacy group representatives, physicians and design institutions. The initiative facilitated the creation of several "inclusive" design concepts addressing some of the everyday tasks and activities that people with rheumatoid arthritis find challenging. "Inclusive" design focuses on designing solutions that appeal to everyone, not just those who have debilitating conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Novel designs that have been created within the 'B Me' initiative include:

-- Easy-to-open condom packet - the packet is large enough to grip in one hand while pulling an opening loop with the other, requiring less force and dexterity to open

-- Fashionable wrist splint - modeled on current medical support aids but designed with modern styling to promote wearability and integration with individual style choices

-- Clothing with innovative fasteners - inspired by the discomfort and frustration people with rheumatoid arthritis experience when dressing or undressing, this concept uses grip technology to make dressing easier, for example when securing cuff links or doing up shoes

Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common autoimmune diseases, affecting more than 20 million people worldwide1, with as many as three million in Europe alone2. It is a progressive chronic disease, characterised by inflammation of the membrane lining the joints, which ultimately leads to irreversible joint destruction and disability. Sadly after ten years, less than 50% of people with rheumatoid arthritis can continue to work or function normally on a daily basis3.

"People with rheumatoid arthritis tell me that undertaking usual activities of daily living such as fastening buttons, getting in and out of chairs and working in the kitchen is incredibly difficult," says Dr Andrew Ostör, Consultant Rheumatologist and Director of the Rheumatology Clinical Research Unit at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge, UK. "Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis has progressed rapidly over the last few years. Innovative biologics targeting specific molecules and cells are now available for those who don't respond to conventional treatment. Using design to raise awareness about the disease, while successfully managing the condition through innovative medical treatment, moves toward the goal of independent living for people with rheumatoid arthritis."

About 'B Me'

'B Me' is funded by Roche, as part of its long-term commitment to raise awareness of rheumatoid arthritis and help people with the condition live as independently as possible.

For further information, please visit www.bmeinitiative.com

About Roche

Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Roche is one of the world's leading research-focused healthcare groups in the fields of pharmaceuticals and diagnostics. As a supplier of innovative products and services for the early detection, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease, the Group contributes on a broad range of fronts to improving people's health and quality of life. Additional information is available on the Internet at www.roche.com.

1. Arthritis Support - based on U.S. Census Bureau data, World Health Organization statistics and epidemiology studies
(http://www.arthritissupport.com/library/showarticle.cfm/ID/879/T/Arthritis/cat/traditional/ last accessed 3rd June)

2. Jönsson B, Kobelt G, Smolen J (Guest Editors). The Burden of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Patient Access to Treatment. The European Journal of Health Economics. 2008. Vol. 8, Suppl. 2 / January 2008

3. Weinblatt ME. Rheumatoid arthritis: treat now, not later [editorial]. Ann Intern Med. 1996;124:773-774