DAT Message for Marking World Arthritis Day marked on 12th October, 2023

Introduction:
Picture this: A vibrant nation, pulsing with life, yet quietly battling an all-too-common foe – arthritis. Kenya, a land of diverse cultures, bustling cities, and breathtaking landscapes, is home to millions who share a common challenge: arthritis. On October 12, 2023, World Arthritis Day took center stage, Under the theme “Joint Health for All”. The day offered us a chance to delve into the rich tapestry of stories behind this global health day.

Arthritis, the silent intruder, weaves its threads into the lives of countless Kenyans. This chronic condition is like an uninvited guest at a lively African feast – it brings discomfort, pain, and inflammation to the table. It doesn’t discriminate by age or gender, and as of 2020, 1.8 million Kenyans knew its unwelcome presence intimately.

Intriguingly, the risk factors for arthritis play a role akin to a complex puzzle. Age, gender, genetics, joint injuries, and obesity each hold a piece of the puzzle. It’s a reminder that joint health is a symphony of nature and nurture. The American Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are the detectives, shedding light on the risk factors – highlighting joint injury, age, gender, weight, and genetics as potential suspects.

Local insights.
On the local front, wisdom flows from the hearts and minds of Kenyan healthcare professionals. Dr. Makandi, an orthopaedic surgeon at Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital, shared her insights during a medical camp in March 2023. She hinted at the genetics-lifestyle duo, particularly a diet rich in Vitamin D, Calcium, and Zinc play a pivotal role in joint health. Moreover, she highlighted the correlation between weight and arthritis, particularly in labor-intensive jobs like tea picking.

References
Arthritis and rheumatic diseases. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/arthritis-and-rheumatic-diseases. Accessed July 7, 2021.

Ferri FF. Osteoarthritis. In: Ferri’s Clinical Advisor 2022. Elsevier; 2022. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed July 7, 2021.

Co-Authors: Elizabeth and Hannah

@ DAT