Frequency of Obesity among Patients of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of obesity in rheumatoid arthritis patients of Quetta and evaluate the associated risk factors.

Study Design: Prospective, Cross-Sectional Study

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the outpatient department (OPD) of Internal medicine in Sandeman Provincial Hospital, Quetta from October 2015 to May 2016.

Materials and Methods: Patients of both genders, of age 30 years or more, diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis for at least 12 months were included. Their socio-demographic characteristics and body mass index (BMI) was determined. Data was entered and analyzed using SPSS v. 20.0.

Results: There were 103 patients of RA with mean duration of disease 15.6 ± 0.6 months. There were more females than males (79% vs. 21%). Their mean age was 48.1 ± 7.7 years. BMI ≥30 kg/m² was seen in 56 (54.4%) patients. Obesity in RA was statistically associated with female gender, older age, and lower socio-economic status (p ≤0.05).

Conclusion: More than half of our RA patients were obese. Obesity was associated with RA in female gender, older age, and lower socio-economic status.