Media workshop on rheumatoid arthritis in Jeddah

Introducing journalists to the causes, symptoms and treatments of rheumatoid arthritis, the workshop is one of the hospital's many dynamic efforts to raise awareness and educate the public on this disease that often goes undiagnosed due to poor awareness.

Dr. Hatem shed light on the realities of this disease and encouraged everyone to take all needed precautions and deal with its symptoms in early stages, "Rheumatoid arthritis affects approximately one per cent of the adult population worldwide, and twice as many women as men suffer from the disease which can start at any age, but usually occurs between 40 and 70 years," explained Dr. Aishi.

"An accurate diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis can be difficult as there is no single test for the condition and the symptoms only develop over time. The diagnosis is normally based upon a number of symptoms and reactions," he added.

The workshop presented case studies while promoting an open discussion amongst journalists and specialists on the usages of biological medications—as opposed to its chemical counterpart. Specialists and professionals, including Dr. Aishi, stressed on importance of using biological medicines, which have proven highly effective in its treatment while having minimal side effects.