World Arthritis Day: Experts calls for early action to prevent disability

As World Arthritis Day approaches on October 12, the Middle East Arthritis Foundation (MEAF) is stepping up efforts to raise awareness about one of the most common yet misunderstood health conditions. Gulf Today spoke with Dr. Bhavna Khan, Consultant Rheumatologist and MEAF representative, about the foundation’s upcoming event, the importance of early diagnosis, and how this year’s focus highlights the wider impact of arthritis beyond joint pain.

Q1. What has MEAF planned to mark World Arthritis Day?

Our World Arthritis Day event on October 11 at Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai, is a full-day program that combines education with practical wellness tools. Attendees can join yoga and Tai Chi sessions, nutrition and mental health workshops, and even a dance class to show how movement benefits joints. Rheumatologists will host open Q&A sessions, and patients will share personal stories to build a sense of community.

Arthritis can be managed effectively with awareness, medical care, and lifestyle adjustments. The event is free and open to all—patients, caregivers, and anyone interested in learning more.

Q2. What is the theme of this year’s event?

The theme, “Arthritis Matters: Empowering Lives, Building Stronger Communities,” reflects our mission to look beyond the disease and focus on people’s lives. This year, we are spotlighting women, young mothers, and families, as arthritis presents unique challenges during fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum stages. Certain medications must be stopped before conception, symptoms can fluctuate during pregnancy, and postpartum flare-ups are common due to hormonal changes.

Q3. What are the early warning signs people should look out for?

Arthritis is often a silent condition, beginning subtly with persistent joint pain, swelling, fatigue, and morning stiffness. If symptoms last for more than a few weeks, they should not be ignored. Women are two to three times more likely than men to develop rheumatoid arthritis.

Arthritis may stem from wear and tear (osteoarthritis) or autoimmune disease, where the immune system attacks the joints. Lifestyle factors such as stress, diet, obesity, and lack of exercise can worsen symptoms. Recognising the signs early is key to preventing long-term complications.

Q4. Why is awareness so important?

Arthritis affects people of all ages—from children to adults in their prime. Globally, more than 528 million live with osteoarthritis and 18 million with rheumatoid arthritis. In the Gulf region, one in five people is affected, and in the UAE, diagnosis often takes a year because early symptoms are overlooked.

Raising awareness ensures earlier detection, better treatment outcomes, and fewer disabilities. It also helps dispel the myth that arthritis only affects the elderly.

Q5. How critical is early diagnosis?

Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent joint deformities and protect vital organs such as the heart, lungs, and kidneys. Timely intervention allows disease control, reduces pain, and improves quality of life. For women, it’s also vital for safe pregnancy planning, as treatment before conception can significantly reduce risks such as miscarriage or premature birth.

Join MEAF’s free World Arthritis Day community event to learn, connect, and build awareness. Register at https://arthritis.ae/