Totnes MP Anthony Steen has backed efforts to raise awareness of rheumatoid arthritis at a drop-in event at the House of Commons, ahead of World Arthritis Day on October 12.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic and disabling autoimmune disease which affects around 387,000 people of all ages in England and Wales.

There are almost 12,000 new cases every year, and approximately 12,000 children under the age of 16 have the juvenile form of the disease.

Those living with the condition experience a lot of pain which can contribute to feelings of isolation, stress and depression.

Speaking at an event organised by the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society, Conservative MP Mr Steen said: "For people with rheumatoid arthritis, even the most mundane of activities can be mountains to climb.

"It is important that we use the opportunity of World Arthritis Day to gain a better understanding of the challenges faced by the half million people in the UK with this disease."

This year's theme for World Arthritis Day is 'the small things which matter'. People with RA often struggle to do everyday tasks like getting around the home, travelling, shopping and looking after children - activities which most people take for granted.

Ailsa Bosworth, chief executive of the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society, added: "I am absolutely delighted that Mr Steen has backed efforts to raise awareness of rheumatoid arthritis.

"With the support of parliamentarians, we can deliver a step change in society's awareness of rheumatoid arthritis and move further towards our vision of equity of access to excellent care for all those living with the condition."

Mr Steen has been the MP for Totnes since 1997. He was previously the MP for South Hams between 1983 and 1997.