Page 27 - UHN Year In Review 2014-15: Patients As Partners In Care

Highlights The research of Dr. Nigil Haroon,
rheumatologist and expert in arthritis
Research links arthritis of the spine with higher risk of death from heart of the spine, or ankylosing spondylitis
attack and stroke (AS), provides evidence of the need for a
Dr. Nigil Haroon, rheumatologist and expert in arthritis of the spine, or comprehensive strategy to screen these
ankylosing spondylitis (AS), has found an increased risk of fatal heart attack or patients for cardiovascular risk factors and
stroke for patients with AS. The disease predominately affects people between provide appropriate treatment.
20 and 40 years of age, a group traditionally considered too young to be at risk (Photo: UHN)
for cardiovascular disease. This research provides evidence for the need of
a comprehensive strategy to screen AS patients for cardiovascular risk factors
and provide appropriate treatment.

Innovative patient education program for patients with
ankylosing spondylitis (AS)
Patients with AS now have access to a web-based education program to
help them better understand their disease and the appropriate medications,
therapies and self-management strategies to control AS. The content for this
program was developed through the expertise of an interdisciplinary team,
patient representatives and Patient and Family Education Program.

Patient Advisory committee
The Psoriatic Arthritis Program has established a six-member patient
advisory board. The medical staff and board members meet every three
months to discuss ongoing and new research and educational initiatives.
The board members review grant submissions, with a focus on ensuring
they can be understood by a general audience. They also advise on what
should be included in the annual patient symposium, as well as other
activities they believe patients should participate in.

Year in Review 2014 – 2015 27