The 2012 Arthritis Research UK prize in rheumatology has been awarded to an occupational therapist from Newcastle University for her research for people with Sjögren’s syndrome.

Kate Hackett, a research occupational therapist at Newcastle University, won the £1,000 prize for her work which looked at what patient information is available to help people with Sjögren’s syndrome with their work, home or leisure activities.

Sjögren’s syndrome affects around 500,000 people in the UK. It is a little-known but potentially severe autoimmune condition in which the body attacks its own tissues, particularly the tear glands and salivary glands. It can cause dryness of the mouth and eyes, extreme fatigue and also affect other internal organs. Arthritis Research UK is currently investing £1m on a UK wide clinical five-year trial on Sjögren’s syndrome. 

Mrs Hackett, from Northumberland, commented: “Arthritis Research UK work to take the pain away from people with all forms of arthritis including people with Sjögren’s syndrome, so I was delighted to see my work recognised with this award.”

"Kate’s work showed a real passion for highlighting the need for patient information for people with Sjögren’s syndrome. We hope our prize will bring further recognition to her valuable work,” explains Keir Windsor, education manager at Arthritis Research UK.

The £1,000 Arthritis Research UK prize is open to nurses and allied health professionals working with patients with arthritis and related musculoskeletal conditions for an outstanding piece of written work.

published on: 22 August 2012