This study explored the unmet needs and treatment satisfaction of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients in the United States who were currently taking disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs). Despite the availability of various effective treatments aimed at reducing symptoms, inflammation, and joint damage, many RA patients continue to experience significant challenges that affect their quality of life.
The study utilized a cross-sectional, web-based survey conducted with participants from the ArthritisPower® research registry and the CreakyJoints online patient community. The survey took place between December 2017 and January 2018, targeting a diverse group of RA patients aged 21 and older who had failed at least one DMARD and had been on their current DMARD for at least six months.
Out of 415 patients screened, 258 were eligible and completed the survey. The majority of the participants were women (87%) and white (87%), with an average age of 54.5 years. A significant portion of the participants had experience with biologic DMARDs (bDMARDs), with 67% currently on a bDMARD and many others on conventional synthetic DMARDs like methotrexate. Despite being on advanced therapies, only 26% of the patients expressed satisfaction with their treatment, indicating a substantial gap between patient expectations and actual treatment outcomes.
The study also found that many patients continued to struggle with symptoms like pain, fatigue, stiffness, and swelling, which severely impacted their physical functioning, mental well-being, social activities, and overall quality of life. About 44% of the participants reported experiencing a flare at the time of the survey, and 43% used prescription pain medications daily or almost daily.
In conclusion, the study revealed that a large number of RA patients are dissatisfied with their current treatment regimens, even those on advanced therapies. These patients continue to experience bothersome symptoms that significantly affect their daily lives, highlighting the need for improved disease management strategies and a better understanding of patient needs in the clinical setting.
Sources:
Radawski, C., Genovese, M.C., Hauber, B. et al. Patient Perceptions of Unmet Medical Need in Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Cross-Sectional Survey in the USA. Rheumatol Ther 6, 461–471 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40744-019-00168-5
