Regional physicians update knowledge of rheumatic diseases

The conference endeavors to communicate new knowledge about improved prevention of rheumatic diseases and better treatment and rehabilitation of patients with these disorders. It also acts as a meeting point for rheumatologists, health care professionals and patients where they can exchange ideas and develop plans for future research and education.

One of the major topics discussed at the conference was the importance of early diagnosis in the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). RA is characterized by the presence of joint swelling associated with pain and stiffness and it affects one person in every hundred in the Middle East. The conference reported that patients presenting with arthritis should be referred to and seen by a rheumatologist within six weeks after the onset of symptoms and that the main goal of RA treatment is to achieve remission. It also emphasized the importance of patient education on the treatment and outcome of the disease.

"The management of different Rheumatic Diseases varies widely among countries, doctors and settings so international events such as the EULAR conferences are crucial in obtaining a set of recommendations and standardized operating procedures. Getting the opportunity to meet with international experts in the field allows for increased knowledge and access to the latest up dates in the treatment and management of rheumatic diseases," says Dr Hussein Al Halabi, Consultant Rheumatologist, King Faisal Hospital, Jeddah, KSA.

The 4 day event included conferences with Continuing Medical Education (CME) accreditations which focused on the substantial burden of rheumatic diseases and the impact on the quality of life of sufferers. The seminars included science and clinical symposia, abstract sessions, presentation and discussion of difficult cases, workshops and special interest group sessions.

"Rheumatic Diseases are crippling our society and continue to have a serious impact on the quality of life of sufferers across the Middle East. We need to improve awareness and further re-enforce the idea that living successfully with these disorders begins with education," comments Dr Hussein Al Halabi.

The management of rheumatic conditions in the Middle East continues to be challenging and we welcome all initiatives to promote the spread of knowledge in the region,"

he continued.