Fifth of the Gulf population affected by arthritis

Around a fifth of the population in the Gulf is affected by some form of rheumatic disease and climate is one of the main causes, experts due to attend a conference on the subject in Dubai on October claimed on Monday.

Environmental conditions such as heat and humidity can also have an adverse effect on rheumatoid arthritis, claimed Dr. Humeira Badsha, consultant rheumatologist at Al Biraa Arthritis and Bone Clinic (ABABC), who is due to attend the Emirates Rheumatology Conference in Dubai from October 10 to 12.

"Heat and humidity can also cause the joints to swell more and can worsen the inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis," Dr Badsha told the WAM news agency.

"In addition, being in an air conditioned environment can worsen problems of vitamin D deficiency. When patients stay indoors all day they do not get vitamin D from the sun and this can cause vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency leads to osteoporosis, weak muscles and autoimmune diseases," he added, claiming that around twenty percent of the population in the Gulf is affected by some form of rheumatic disease.

However, Dr Badsha said there are many new treatments available for rheumatoid arthritis and “the aim of the treatment is to completely halt the progression of the disease and to prevent deformities and joint damage."

The Emirates Rheumatology Conference takes place from October 10 to 12 at the Al Murooj Rotana Hotel, Dubai.