Results from an Arthritis Foundation survey about rheumatoid arthritis point to many life-altering consequences.
About The Survey
Five hundred people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 200 primary care physicians, and 100 rheumatologists were surveyed by Wirthlin Worldwide for the Arthritis Foundation. The survey was funded by a grant from Immunex Corporation and Wyeth-Ayerst Laboratories and results were released around August 1998.
Survey Results
More than two-thirds of the survey respondents with rheumatoid arthritis claimed the disease prevents them from living a fully productive life, and when at its worst the disease impedes social interaction contributing to loneliness and isolation. The physicians and rheumatologists who participated in the survey concur that rheumatoid arthritis can be life-altering, but with early diagnosis and treatment the impact can be minimized.
Aspects Of Daily Living
80% of people with rheumatoid arthritis said that every aspect of daily life is more difficult since the onset of the disease. Even small tasks, like getting dressed in the morning, can become a major effort.
- 70% of the people said when at their worst they give up exercise and household chores.
- 50% give up social activities with family and friends.
Most of the people surveyed said rheumatoid arthritis interferes with taking care of themselves and 52% said it affected taking care of their families. Also:
- 81% are frustrated by the feeling of no longer being in control.
- 66% claim getting out of bed is more difficult.
- 32% cannot get dressed when their rheumatoid arthritis is at its worst.
Working
The survey results also revealed that 63% of those people who held a job when diagnosed have stopped working.
Drug Treatment Options
Only 7% of general practitioners and 13% of specialists are satisfied with current medication options. Nearly half of the general practitioners surveyed said the downfall of current treatment options is toxic side effects and adverse reactions, and nearly two-thirds of rheumatologists cite their lack of effectiveness. One in three people with rheumatoid arthritis are dissatisfied with their current treatment options too. 80% have had to either change or add medications since being diagnosed.
Exercise
The survey also revealed that doctors recommend either physical therapy or regular exercise as part of disease management. Though 78% of patients believe in the value of exercise, only 46% exercise regularly.
Related Resources - Solving Difficult Issues
Arthritis can impose significant limitations, challenges, and problems into daily life. Learn more about developing effective coping strategies, better communication, and positive solutions to these issues.Related Resources - Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis has no cure. Early aggressive treatment of rheumatoid arthritis can help to manage the disease, and better control the pain, stiffness, and fatigue.
Source: Arthritis Foundation from PRNewswire
