Steven Tyler Praised by International Patient Groups in .....
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Steven Tyler Praised by International Patient Groups in Advance of World Hepatitis
Awareness Day
BRUSSELS, Belgium, September 29 /PRNewswire/ --
As one of 180 million people affected by hepatitis C around the world, Steven Tyler, lead
singer of Aerosmith has received praise from international patient organisations for
talking openly about his battle with hepatitis C. The announcement from Steven Tyler
comes just days before World Hepatitis Awareness Day 2006.
Muriel Colinet, President of the European Liver Patient Association (ELPA), expressed
her gratitude to Steven Tyler, saying that "Steven Tyler has taken the important and
brave step to reveal his hepatitis C status, a move that is vital if we are to succeed in
our battle to combat this devastating disease." She added that "only by talking openly
about the disease and by encouraging people who might be at risk to get tested can we
begin to tackle this global problem."
Steven Tyler adds his name to that of a number of celebrities, including Sir Bob
Geldof, who are attempting to raise awareness of hepatitis B and C, diseases that affect
almost 600 million people worldwide. Speaking in a pre-recorded message at the World
Health Organization Regional Office for Europe on Tuesday, Sir Bob Geldof explained that
"stigma, shame and fear can suffocate awareness. These barriers prevent people from
getting tested, getting treatment and clearing themselves of the disease."
Sunday, 1 October 2006 marks the third annual World Hepatitis Awareness Day. The theme
for this year is 'Get Tested' and people at risk from the disease are encouraged to do
just that - Get Tested. For more information regarding activities around the world please
visit www.worldhepatitisawarenessday.com