Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day

Almost 1.5 million people in the United States live with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), most of whom are women. Generally speaking, patients diagnosed with RA are surrounded by myths and misconceptions about their sometimes invisible condition.

By informing and educating family and friends of those with RA, many organizations and authorities aim to eliminate misinformation about rheumatoid arthritis.

History of Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day

The Rheumatoid Arthritis Patient Foundation (RPF) created this day in 2013 to raise awareness for all the people who live every day with pain and misunderstanding about this chronic disease.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day is observed every February 2nd to spread the word about knowing the early symptoms of the disease, getting diagnosed early, and beginning treatment as quickly as possible.

What is rheumatoid arthritis?

It is an autoimmune disease that provokes the body’s immune system to mistakenly attack the patient’s joints, resulting in pain and inflammation. It differs from osteoarthritis, which is most common among the senior population. Arthritis means “inflammation of the joint”; even so, RA refers to the body attacking itself.

Along with pain and inflammation, rheumatoid arthritis might cause other dangerous conditions, such as organ damage in the lungs, eyes, or heart. Late diagnosis and lack of appropriate treatment can rapidly diminish the patient’s quality of life. Unfortunately, there is no cure for RA, but it can go into remission with timely and proper management.

Facts about rheumatoid arthritis

How to observe Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day?

An important first step towards spreading awareness would be to educate ourselves. If you have rheumatoid arthritis or have a family history of the disease, you can catch up with the latest investigations and news regarding RA. In addition, you can donate or volunteer for an association dedicated to education or medical research.

If you have RA, you can make an appointment with your doctor to check if everything is correct with your treatment. Still, February 2nd is an excellent day to learn more about a silent and painful disease that can be detected early and treated adequately just by having enough information.

At Signature Health Services, we understand how painful and disabling life can be with rheumatoid arthritis. Our skilled team of registered nurses and licensed therapists can help you with information, treatments, or care for patients with RA. Please, call us if you have any concerns about your health.