Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis in Africa

Ezeani Nkiru Nwamaka

Department of Biochemistry Ebonyi State University Abakaliki, Nigeria

                                                                         ABSTRACT

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a progressive autoimmune disorder with a significant impact on the quality of life, particularly in Africa where the disease burden is increasing. Despite the growing prevalence of RA on the continent, there remains a paucity of comprehensive data, limited access to advanced treatments, and significant challenges related to healthcare infrastructure, socioeconomic factors, and cultural beliefs. This paper explores the epidemiology of RA in Africa, identifies barriers to effective management, and reviews current treatment practices. It also discusses innovative and culturally relevant strategies to improve RA management, focusing on community-based interventions and the use of mobile technology. The paper concludes with a call for increased research, improved healthcare policies, and the adaptation of treatment guidelines to better serve the African context.

Keywords:Rheumatoid arthritis, Africa, autoimmune disease, epidemiology, healthcare access, cultural factors.

CITE AS: Ezeani Nkiru Nwamaka (2024). Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis in Africa. RESEARCH INVENTION JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN MEDICAL SCIENCES 3(2):50-54.