A recent forum on World Axial Spondyloarthritis Day emphasised the prevalent issue of back pain faced by one in five individuals in the country, stressing the imperative need to raise public awareness about this ailment. The event, initiated by Novartis Pharma (Pakistan) Limited and backed by Express Media Group, was held at a local hotel.
Collaborating with the Axial Spondyloarthritis International Federation (ASIF) and the Arthritis Care Foundation (ACF), the forum successfully brought together medical experts to elucidate the often overlooked condition, Axial Spondyloarthritis (axSpA). axSpA is a type of rheumatic inflammation predominantly affecting the lower back and sacroiliac joint, responsible for bearing the body’s weight in standing position.
Under this year’s theme, “Moving with axSpA,” the event underscored the beneficial effects of physical activity on mental and physical wellbeing for those living with the disease.
Professor Sumaira Farman Raja, the Rheumatology Department Head at the National Defence Hospital, shared critical insights about the disease during the forum. Prof. Raja dispelled common misconceptions attributing back pain solely to issues like disc problems or injuries, asserting that axSpA, an inflammatory condition, might be the culprit.
She highlighted how axSpA often starts below the age of 40 and typically presents with nighttime pain and morning stiffness that alleviates after half an hour of regular activity. Additional symptoms like psoriasis or ocular inflammation may also indicate axSpA. Prof. Raja refuted the common belief that axSpA predominantly affects men, emphasising that women, too, are equally susceptible.
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Prof. Dr. Nighat Mir, a consultant and professor of rheumatology, underlined the adverse impact of delayed medical consultations. The condition’s progression can become challenging to manage when joint functionality deteriorates, which is why early diagnosis and treatment is vital. She urged for timely MRI scans under expert guidance, a crucial diagnostic tool, albeit expensive.
Dr. Muhammad Ahmad Saeed, a Rheumatology Consultant and Professor at Central Park Hospital, commented on the financial burden of axSpA treatment, which remains unaffordable for many in developing nations. He recommended lifestyle alterations and exercise, particularly swimming, as beneficial practices for managing the disease.
Express Media Group’s Editor, Ajmal Sattar Malik, reiterated the organization’s commitment to enlighten the public about underrecognized diseases such as axSpA, emphasizing its effect on young people’s mobility and quality of life.
Jo Lowe and Joe Davies from the Axial Spondyloarthritis International Federation, part of the awareness initiative, discussed global efforts to expedite diagnosis and enhance patient quality of life. An agreement was reached between ACF and ASIF to bolster educational endeavors and awareness campaigns, aiming to eliminate diagnostic delays in Pakistan.
