CMCH doctors stress on early detection of arthritis

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, October 14

World Arthritis Day was observed by the College of Nursing, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana, at Jamalpur Awana, on the theme, ‘Do Not Delay, Connect Today’.

Sanjeet Johnson, Associate Professor, Nisha Singh - Clinical Instructor and Bhawna-Demonstrator conducted the programme under the guidance of Dr Reena Jairus-Professor and Principal and Glory Samuel – Vice-Principal, HOD of the Community Health Nursing Department College of Nursing, Christian Medical College and Hospital.

Nisha Singh, clinical instructor, unfolded the theme and shared her views on arthritis, its signs, symptoms and prevention. She also emphasised the importance of early detection and treatment to prevent lasting damage due to arthritis.

The World Health Organisation data shows 0.3-1 per cent of the world’s population has rheumatoid arthritis and 9.6 per cent men and 18 per cent women above 60 years of age have osteoarthritis. Dietary changes, physical fitness, exercise, weight control and stress-free living are helpful in dealing with arthritis.

Students performed the nukkad natak and displayed posters regarding arthritis and its prevention. Meanwhile, Dr SS Sibia, Director, Sibia Medical Centre, Ludhiana, said with modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors such as obesity, lack of exercise, bone density the cases of joint problems are on the rise.

“Osteoarthritis is the second-most common rheumatologic problem and is the most frequent joint disease with a prevalence of around 40 per cent in India. It is a form of arthritis which features the breakdown and eventual loss of cartilage of one or more joints. Cartilage is a protein-like substance which acts as cushion in between the joints. Although osteoarthritis can affect any joint, this disorder commonly affects hands, knees, hips and spine.

Pain arising from the disease affects an individual’s day-to-day activities and also increases the risk of further morbidities,” said Dr SS Sibia, Director, Sibia Medical Centre, Ludhiana.With the advent of technology, cytotron, latest device based on Rotational Field Quantum Magnetic Resonance (RFQMR) has replaced the need of undergoing invasive joint replacement surgeries, he added.