World Arthritis Day: 12 October, 2024

Let’s introduce you to Jay, a 54-year-old healthcare administrator. 

In 2022, Jay began experiencing sharp pains in his knees and hips. Like many, though, he brushed it off as just part of ageing. 

Fast forward a few years, and the pain became unbearable. He could no longer perform simple tasks at work, like sitting for long hours or even walking around the office without grimacing in pain. His weekends were spent recovering, leaving him too exhausted to enjoy life.

It was then that Jay was diagnosed with osteoarthritis, a condition that he knew little about before. By the time he sought medical help, his condition had already progressed to the point where joint damage was irreversible. This realisation hit hard — how could he have ignored the signs? 

But Jay’s story is not uncommon. In fact, millions around the world suffer silently, unaware of how arthritis can start small and snowball into a life-altering condition if not diagnosed early.

As we recognise World Arthritis Day in 2024, it’s important to understand the importance of early detection and education. Arthritis may begin with subtle joint stiffness, but it can rapidly progress to affect your mobility and quality of life if left untreated. 

What is World Arthritis Day?

World Arthritis Day, celebrated annually on October 12th, is a global initiative to raise awareness about arthritis and other rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs). First established in 1996 by Arthritis and Rheumatism International (ARI), the day brings attention to over 100 different types of arthritis that impact millions worldwide, including conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile arthritis. 

The goal of World Arthritis Day is to spread awareness and encourage early diagnosis, effective management, and support for those living with these chronic conditions​.

World Arthritis Day 2024 - Theme and Focus

1. World Arthritis Day 2024 is observed on October 12th globally​
2. The theme is ‘Informed Choices, Better Outcomes’ 
3. The focus is on combating misinformation and encouraging evidence-based health choices​
4. This day was established by Arthritis and Rheumatism International (ARI) in 1996​
5. Aims to raise awareness of over 200 types of musculoskeletal diseases affecting millions worldwide​
6. Events include webinars, social media campaigns, and community support to educate and empower people​
    

Arthritis - Meaning and Types

Arthritis is a broad term that refers to inflammation of the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. It affects people of all ages and can significantly impact daily life. Arthritis is not just one condition but includes over 100 different types, each with distinct causes and symptoms. Managing arthritis often requires a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and, sometimes, physical therapy or surgery.

Here are some common types of arthritis — 

1. Osteoarthritis (OA): It is the most common type, often referred to as ‘wear and tear’ arthritis. It occurs when the cartilage between joints wears down, causing pain and stiffness, particularly in weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips. OA often progresses with age but can also be triggered by joint injuries​. 
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): It is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints, causing inflammation and joint damage. RA often affects joints symmetrically, such as the hands and wrists. It can lead to long-term disability if not treated properly​.
3. Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): This type of arthritis affects people with psoriasis, a skin condition. It leads to joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, often affecting the fingers and toes, alongside visible skin symptoms​.
4. Gout: Caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, it leads to sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling. Gout usually affects the big toe but can occur in other joints​.
5. Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): It is a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine and can cause inflammation, pain, and, in severe cases, the fusion of the spinal vertebrae​. 
6. Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA): The most common form of arthritis in children, it is characterised by persistent joint pain and swelling, which can affect one or more joints​.

What are the Symptoms of Arthritis?

The symptoms can vary as per the type but generally include a combination of joint-related issues. Early recognition of these symptoms is important for effective management and slowing disease progression.

Here are the common symptoms of arthritis — 

1. Joint pain: Persistent pain in the affected joints, which may worsen with movement
2. Stiffness: Particularly noticeable in the morning or after periods of inactivity
3. Swelling: Inflammation that may cause visible swelling around the joints
4. Reduced range of motion: Difficulty moving the joint fully, leading to limited flexibility
5. Warmth and redness: In some types of arthritis, the affected joints may feel warm to the touch or appear red
6. Clicking or cracking sounds: Sometimes, joints may make noises during movement due to cartilage damage
7. Fatigue: For some individuals, particularly those with rheumatoid arthritis, feeling tired or experiencing low energy can be a symptom

Self-Care Tips to Prevent Arthritis

Preventing this condition, especially in its early stages, involves adopting a healthy lifestyle and taking proactive measures. Listed below are self-care tips to prevent or reduce the risk of developing arthritis — 

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts additional stress on joints, particularly weight-bearing ones like the knees and hips. Losing even a small amount of weight can reduce the strain on your joints, significantly lowering the risk of developing osteoarthritis​.
2. Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise strengthens the muscles around your joints, increases flexibility, and reduces joint stiffness. Low-impact activities such as swimming, walking, and yoga are ideal for maintaining joint health without overstraining them​.
3. Protect Your Joints: Avoid repetitive movements or overuse of joints during physical activities. Proper techniques when lifting heavy objects, maintaining good posture, and using ergonomic tools are important for preventing unnecessary stress on the joints​.
4. Eat an Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like fish), fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to help reduce inflammation. Avoiding processed foods and reducing sugar intake can also promote joint health​.
5. Stay Hydrated and Avoid Smoking: Hydration supports joint function by keeping the cartilage healthy. Smoking, on the other hand, can accelerate joint damage, so quitting smoking can protect your joints from long-term harm​.

Does Health Insurance Provide Coverage for Arthritis?

Health insurance in the UAE covers arthritis, although the specifics depend on the policy and provider. 

In general, arthritis is considered a pre-existing condition, which means it is often covered after a waiting period. This period can range from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the insurance plan. It is important to disclose any arthritis diagnosis when applying for health insurance to avoid claim rejections later.

Most comprehensive health policies in the UAE include coverage for consultations with specialists, diagnostic tests such as X-rays or MRIs, and treatment options like medications, physical therapy, and, in some cases, surgeries like joint replacement. Some policies may also cover advanced treatments such as biologic drugs for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. However, coverage for specific treatments like alternative therapies or certain injectable medications may vary.

Exclusions often include experimental treatments or therapies not widely approved. Furthermore, there might be limitations on the frequency or amount of coverage for joint replacement surgeries.

Disclaimer: The article is for informational purposes only and is not to be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Connect with a qualified medical professional in case of any queries or health issues.

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