ISLAMABAD - Marking World Arthritis Day, orthopedic specialists Sunday underscored the significance of educating people about rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases, stressing the benefits of exercise, symptom recognition, preventive strategies and the importance of early diagnosis to reduce the risk of severe complications.
Head of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at LNH, Prof. Dr. Syed Shahid Noor, in an exclusive interview with a media channel, emphasized the significance of World Arthritis Day in raising public awareness about rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. He highlighted that understanding the early symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility is crucial for timely intervention.
"Awareness is the first step toward managing these conditions effectively," he stated, urging people to pay close attention to persistent joint discomfort and seek medical advice without delay.
Prof. Dr. Noor also discussed the latest treatment approaches, stressing the importance of a combination of regular exercise, medication and lifestyle modifications tailored to each patient.
Early diagnosis, he explained, allows for better management of symptoms and can prevent severe complications. "With proper treatment and awareness, patients can maintain a good quality of life and reduce the progression of arthritis," he said, encouraging individuals to adopt preventive measures and consult specialists promptly.
Mansoor Ali Khan, head of Department for Orthopedics at Aga Khan University Hospital, highlighted that World Arthritis Day is a global health awareness event held annually on October 12. The day is dedicated to raising awareness about rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) and bringing people together worldwide to support those affected by these conditions.
He explained that World Arthritis Day serves as a platform to amplify voices advocating for better treatment options and improved care for patients living with RMDs, adding, the initiative aims to create more opportunities for education, research, and access to healthcare services.
Khan pointed out that major risk factors for rheumatic diseases include aging, obesity, family history, previous joint injuries, and a sedentary lifestyle.
He stressed that recognizing symptoms early such as joint pain, stiffness and swelling and adopting preventive measures can significantly enhance quality of life. He urged individuals to stay informed, maintain an active lifestyle, and seek medical advice promptly to manage symptoms effectively and reduce the impact of these diseases.
Experts emphasize the importance of collective effort to raise awareness, ensure timely diagnosis and promote wellness for lasting joint health and pain relief.