Recent research has revealed 8 more genes linked to osteoarthritis, bringing the total number of suspects to 11.
Osteoarthritis accounts for a large proportion of joint pain and dysfunction
A study at Newcastle University, funded by the Arthritis Research Council has reinforced what practitioners and sufferers have suspected for some time.
Osteoarthritis affects over 40 % of the population over the age of 70 but practitioners commonly see patients in their 40’s onward, all relating the same story; “well it runs in the family you know”.
Whilst osteoarthritis is linked to injury and joint trauma, it is thought that inherited factors account for over half of the cases in the UK.
The research, published in The Lancet compared the DNA of 7,400 UK osteoarthritis patients with that of 11,000 healthy volunteers.
Being able to track down the main gene offenders gives scientists a greater understanding of the condition, how it affects our joints and look at potential new treatments.
This autumn sees the launch of a very special cycling event in Cumbria – The Jennings Rivers Ride.
Cumbria’s current high Sheriff, Iona Frost-Pennington will be taking part on Sunday 18th September, in aid of the Cumbria High Sheriff’s Crimebeat Fund.
High Sheriff of Cumbria Iona Frost-Pennington in training.
Crimebeat Fund
The High Sheriff’s Crimebeat Fund was established by Adam Naylor (High Sheriff 2005/6) and Robin Burgess (2006/7).
The primary purpose is to support young people in danger of becoming involved in the youth justice system and its initial funding came from the residue left in the Cumbria Crimebeat fund that had been dormant for a number of years.
It was the hope of the founder High Sherrif’s that additional funds would be raised by them and their successors so that regular grants could be made in Cumbria.
By the end of March 2010 the fund has awarded grants totalling £11,500 and by doing so has supported 18 projects, 2,861 young people and volunteers.
For those who would like to support our High Sherrif, a Just Giving page has been set up for online donations.
The Jennings Rivers Ride
It’s a series of three bike rides starting and finishing in Keswick and following the route of the devastating floods of 2009.
The reason these rides are special is, unlike other cycle sportives, these have been organised by a local charity – Cumbria Community Foundation – and the entrance fee will raise money for good Cumbrian causes.
If that wasn’t enough, it is a chance for entrants to get sponsors to raise money for any other charity that is close to their heart. Everyone’s a winner!
There are three rides on 18 September 2011:
You can choose from The Family Ride, an all inclusive event that challenges youngsters (and their parents / guardians) to ride a distance of just over eight miles through the beautiful north lakes and taking in the rebuilt Newlands Beck Bridge.
The Middle Distance Event is great for anyone looking for a testing but achievable cycling challenge. The route will appeal to both cycling novices (with some preparation) and experienced riders alike. You’ll cycle close to 40 miles along lovely roads in the lakes, heading out towards Cockermouth, crossing the Ouse Bridge and returning via the rebuilt Lorton Bridge and finishing with a climb over Whinlatter Pass.
The Big Day Out Ride aims to challenge the more experienced rider and heads all the way out to the Irish Sea at Workington via Cockermouth. If that was not already enough, riders return to Keswick via Honister, Newlands and Whinlatter passes to complete an epic ride of over 85 miles – although with those hills it is sure to feel more like a hundred! It’s £10 for The Family Ride and £25 for both The Middle Distance Event and The Big Day Out Ride. The routes will be well signposted, marshalled and supported with feeding stations. Book online at www.cumbriafoundation.orgor call: 01900 825760.
If you don’t fancy getting on your bike for a good cause, come and have a great day out in Keswick as Cumbria Community Foundation is also organising a Family Fun Day on Fitz Park on 18 September 2011.
More information
Cumbria Community Foundation Dovenby Hall Dovenby Cockermouth Cumbria CA13 0PN Telephone 01900 825760 Email nicola@cumbriafoundation.org
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