WHO study finds rising joint pain in India

A recent study by the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed a significant rise in joint pains and arthritis in India, with women being particularly affected. The survey, part of a program to control rheumatic diseases, included over 56,000 participants and highlighted that about 16% suffer from musculoskeletal pain. Many individuals reported years of suffering before receiving accurate diagnoses. For instance, Jamuna Patil, 44, was misinformed that her joint pain was linked to menopause. It took two and a half years for her to be diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Similar misdiagnoses occurred for others, leading to unnecessary treatments. Dr. Arvind Chopra, a rheumatologist, emphasized the importance of this study for public health planning. The findings indicate that millions of people in India experience various forms of arthritis. Many people manage their pain at home rather than seek medical help unless their symptoms become severe. Several factors contribute to the increasing rates of arthritis. These include a growing elderly population, poor understanding of pain management, chronic diseases, and risky lifestyles in urban areas like obesity and inactivity. In rural areas, heavy manual labor is a concern. Women, especially those under 45, reported higher rates of rheumatoid arthritis, often overlooking their symptoms. Data showed that rural populations experience more musculoskeletal pain at 20%, compared to 10% in urban areas. The survey also identified specific types of arthritis, revealing that several conditions are prevalent among the population. These findings underscore the need for a national program to address arthritis care and education in India.