A survey on the Present Status and Future Perspective of Rheumatoid Arthritis Management at Dhamrai, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Abstract

This survey study aims to uncover the prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in Dhamrai, providing insight into the local epidemiological landscape of this debilitating autoimmune condition. Employing a cross-sectional approach, the study utilizes a structured questionnaire and clinical assessments to gather data from a representative sample of Dhamrai population. The majority of survey respondents (67%) indicated a high level of familiarity with rheumatoid arthritis, while 27% reported being unfamiliar with it. Among the participants, 55% reported being affected by rheumatoid arthritis, while 45% stated they were not affected. Regarding symptoms, 25% reported experiencing tenderness and swelling in multiple joints, while 32% reported stiffness in various joints. Additionally, 45% of respondents reported feeling increased pain in the early morning, with 23% experiencing more pain at night and 25% feeling more pain during walking. Regarding treatment, 47% of participants reported using NSAIDs to relieve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, while 30% used corticosteroids. Furthermore, 90% of respondents considered regular exercise necessary for preventing rheumatoid arthritis. Regarding vaccines, 30% of participants reported receiving a vaccine to improve or combat rheumatoid arthritis, with 60% receiving the pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccine and 40% receiving the influenza vaccine. In this investigation 59% participants has been known that mediterranean diet, with lots of fruits and vegetables is good for Rheumatoid Arthritis patients. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing rheumatoid arthritis as a public health concern, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and increased awareness.