Shocking Statistics: 1 in 4 Indians Affected by Rheumatic Musculoskeletal Disorders

- The Fatal Impact of Rheumatic Disorders – Update 2025 discusses the Serious Health Threat to Millions in India!

New Delhi: Rheumatological diseases are becoming an increasingly prevalent health concern in India, affecting approximately 25% of the population. These conditions, caused by immune system malfunctions, lead to inflammation, pain, and long-term damage to multiple organs. The rising number of such cases is causing alarm among healthcare professionals, particularly due to the complex nature of these diseases and their potential to become life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early.

In light of these growing concerns, the Delhi Rheumatology Association Update 2025 was held recently at the Holiday Inn, New Delhi. The event, organized by Fortis Group of Hospitals, brought together over 220 doctors and medical students from across the country. The primary aim of this gathering was to bridge the existing gaps in the diagnosis of rheumatic diseases and to explore better strategies for their treatment. The conference focused on the latest therapeutic approaches for autoimmune disorders and the importance of early diagnosis.

Dr. Bimlesh Dhar Pandey, Director of Rheumatology at Fortis Hospital, Noida, played a key role in the event, offering invaluable insights into the complexities of autoimmune diseases. With years of expertise in the field, Dr. Pandey emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plans to ensure better outcomes for patients. His presentation focused on the management of various autoimmune disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and psoriatic arthritis, which are increasingly affecting India's population, particularly women in their reproductive years.

According to Dr. Pandey, autoimmune diseases often manifest through symptoms like persistent fever, unexplained weight loss, and joint pain, which are frequently dismissed as unrelated issues. He highlighted how conditions such as psoriasis, often perceived as a mere skin disorder, can also indicate psoriatic arthritis, a serious condition that affects the joints. Moreover, he explained that diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus can cause irreversible joint deformities if not diagnosed and managed at the right time.

Dr. Pandey’s approach focuses on the early identification of these diseases, aiming to provide timely interventions that can significantly improve the quality of life for patients. He also addressed the misconceptions about the treatment of rheumatic diseases, emphasizing that while there is no cure, scientific treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent long-term damage. He urged healthcare professionals to focus on educating patients about the need for lifelong treatment and the importance of adherence to prescribed therapies.

The event also discussed the growing concern of pediatric rheumatology, as autoimmune diseases are increasingly affecting children. These patients are at risk of complications like frequent infections, heart disease, kidney damage, and gastrointestinal issues due to long-term medication use.

Dr. Pandey also touched upon environmental and genetic triggers for these diseases, particularly in urban areas with high levels of pollution. He pointed out that certain viral infections, such as chikungunya, have been linked to a higher risk of developing arthritis, highlighting the need for a national health policy to manage and prevent such outbreaks.

One of the key challenges discussed at the event was the delay in diagnosis and treatment. Patients often resort to alternative treatments, such as Ayurveda and homeopathy, which can delay seeking appropriate medical care and allow the disease to progress to a stage where deformities are irreversible. Dr. Pandey called for a national strategy to raise awareness and establish a strong referral system, ensuring that patients seek specialized care at the right time.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment to improving rheumatological care across the country, with a focus on raising awareness, early detection, and timely treatment. Dr. Pandey’s contribution to the discussions reinforced the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing autoimmune diseases, ensuring that rheumatologists, general physicians, and pediatricians work together for the well-being of the patients.

The Delhi Rheumatology Association Update 2025 served as an important platform for medical professionals to stay updated on the latest advancements in rheumatology, with an emphasis on improving patient care, addressing diagnostic challenges, and ensuring better health outcomes for individuals battling autoimmune diseases in India.