International Women’s Day 2022

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global holiday celebrated annually on March 8 to commemorate the cultural, political, and socioeconomic achievements of women. It is also a focal point in the women’s rights movement, bringing attention to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women.

For IWD 2022, the Canadian Spondylitis Association would like to bring attention to the diagnosis of Spondylitis (SpA) in women. Most women take on average 3 years longer to be diagnosed which may raise the possibility that overall, female patients may have more atypical and somewhat milder disease symptoms than men, leading to underdiagnosis.

As a way to support women, we’ve put together these resources to help during their diagnosis and patient journey.

Diagnosis:

Journey to Diagnosis Page – Faster access to diagnosis and treatment can improve symptoms and slow progression.
Drug Reimbursement Page – We believe in fair access to life-changing services and medications for all, not only those with coverage. Learn more on reimbursement plans in Canada.
Treatment Journey Webinar – It’s important that patients understand their condition, complications and treatment options to take control of their lives.
Pharmacological Treatments in Canada – Many people are not aware of the pharmacological options available to them when they live with SpA.

Advocacy:

Employment Resources – Accommodation in the workplace isn’t required by everyone but it’s good to have information (or know where to find it) on how to approach requesting accommodations at work.
Advocating for yourself – Interested in learning how to better advocate for yourself? Whether you are recently diagnosed or still looking for answers, our new resource geared towards young adults can help you through any stage of your disease.
Sex & SPA – Do you have questions about sexuality living with a chronic inflammatory condition? We have resources to help you navigate intimacy living with SpA.
Navigating information – Knowledge is power, but the internet can be a scary place. Save yourself hours of doom-scrolling and check out our new tips for safely finding information online.
Baring It All – Read the final report from a survey on sexual and reproductive health needs of women+* with rheumatic, inflammatory and psoriatic diseases.

Diagnosis:

Advocacy:

Support Groups: