A review on the epidemiology of rheumatoid arthritis : an update and trends from current literature
Maharaj, Ajesh Adebajo, Adewale
Maharaj, Ajesh
Adebajo, Adewale
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Affiliation
Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust; Walter Sisulu University; University of Sheffield
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Publication date
2025-02-11
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Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic, chronic autoimmune disease affecting mainly the joints, often with extra articular manifestations. This review provides an update on RA epidemiological trends and management. PubMed and EMBASE were searched from 2014 to 2024 using rheumatoid arthritis as keyword, combined with incidence, prevalence, diagnosis, classification, and management. Emphasis was on papers published in the past 5 years. Globally, the age-standardised prevalence and incidence rate (ASPR and ASIR) of RA increased with varying figures. The ASPR increased by 0.37%, 14.1%, and 6.4% from 1990 to 2019, 2020 and 2017 respectively; and 9% from 1980 to 2019. The ASIR increased by 0.3% and 8.2% from 1990 to 2019 and 2017 respectively; the disability-adjusted life years (DALY) figures increased 0.12% and decreased 0.36% in the same period from different authors. Reduction in ASIR were reported while ASPR varies. Disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) remain the cornerstone of treatment.
Citation
Uke P, Maharaj A, Adebajo A. A review on the epidemiology of rheumatoid arthritis: An update and trends from current literature. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol. 2025 Feb 11:102036. doi: 10.1016/j.berh.2025.102036. Epub ahead of print
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Article