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World Arthritis Day: Raising Awareness and Driving Change
Every year on October 12th marks World Arthritis Day (WAD), a time to raise global awareness of the challenges faced by people living with arthritis and other forms of muculoskeletal diseases (RMDs)1. For millions, arthritis is not just a medical condition – it’s a daily struggle with pain, limited mobility, and the effects on mental well-being. With over 18 million people2 worldwide suffering from rheumatoid arthritis alone, one of the many types of arthritis, it’s more important ever to understand how we can improve their quality of life through awareness, early intervention, and innovative treatment options.
Understanding Arthritis
Arthritis is an umbrella term for a group of conditions characterized by inflammation of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. The three widely known types of arthritis are osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and psoriatic arthritis (PsA)3. Arthritis, however, is more than just joint pain. For those living with the condition, daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or even writing can become challenging. RA, an autoimmune condition, is one of the most debilitating forms, often affecting individuals in their most productive years, leading to chronic pain and disability.
Importance of Early Diagnosis4
Early detection of arthritis can make a significant difference in managing its symptoms and slowing disease progression. However, many people delay seeking medical help until the condition worsens, attributing their symptoms to aging or overuse.
On World Arthritis Day, we emphasize the importance of being proactive. If you or someone you know is experiencing joint pain, stiffness, or swelling that lasts for more than a few weeks, it’s imperative to consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and intervention can help manage symptoms more effectively, improve long-term outcomes and significantly impact quality of life.
Innovations in Arthritis Treatment: The role of Biosimilars
In recent years, biosimilars have emerged as an important treatment option for rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases. These treatments offer an affordable alternative to biologics – complex therapies that target the underlying causes of inflammation. Biosimilars are developed to be highly similar to reference biologics in terms of safety, purity, potency, and effectiveness, providing patients with the same clinical benefits while potentially lowering the cost of treatment.
At Samsung Bioepis, we are at the forefront of biosimilar development, contributing to the global effort to make these cutting-edge treatments accessible to more patients. By offering affordable options without compromising on quality, biosimilars can help alleviate the financial burden for both patients and healthcare systems.
Improving Lives Beyond Medication5,6
While innovative treatments like biosimilars play a critical role in managing arthritis, a holistic approach to treatment can make a big difference. Physical therapy, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy diet are essential components of managing arthritis effectively. Patients are encouraged to stay active, even when movement is painful, as it helps maintain joint function and reduce stiffness.
Beyond the physical therapy, emotional, and psychological support is equally vital. Support groups, counselling and family involvement can help patients manage the emotion toll of living with a chronic condition. On World Arthritis Day, it’s important to not only focus on treatments but also highlight the significance of emotional support and lifestyle management in the overall well-being of people living with arthritis.
Looking Ahead: Samsung Bioepis’ Commitment to Innovation and Accessibility
On World Arthritis Day, we reflect on the progress made in arthritis treatment, but we also recognize that much remains to be done. This day serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for research, innovation, and accessibility in the field of arthritis care. At Samsung Bioepis, we are committed to continuing our work in developing therapies that address both the symptoms and causes of arthritis. Through our dedication to biologic treatments, we aim to improve the quality of life for millions of patients worldwide.
Widening accessibility is at the core of our mission. We believe that affordable, effective treatments should be within reach for all patients, regardless of geographic or financial barriers. By developing quality-proven biosimilars, we aim to reduce healthcare costs while ensuring patients receive the same standard of care as with reference biologics.
As we move forward, we remain dedicated to improving the lives of millions of people affected by arthritis worldwide. By combining our cutting-edge science with passion to health, we hope to empower individuals living with arthritis to live fuller, more active lives.
1 European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR). World Arthritis Day 2024. Last accessed October 4, 2024.
2 World Health Organization (WHO). Rheumatoid Arthritis. Last accessed October 4, 2024.
3 Mayo Clinic. Disease & Conditions: Arthritis. Last accessed October 4, 2024.
4 Heidari B. (2011). Rheumatoid Arthritis: Early diagnosis and treatment outcomes. Caspian journal of internal medicine, 2(1), 161–170.
5 National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society (NRAS). Managing your RA. Last accessed October 4, 2024.
6 Arthritis Foundation. Health & Wellness. Last accessed October 4, 2024.