On the occasion of World Rheumatism Day on October 12th, the Vienna Health Association is focusing on an often underestimated risk: Rheumatic diseases not only affect the joints, but can also cause serious co-morbidities such as cardiovascular problems and depression . Particularly inflammatory forms of rheumatism are often chronic and also affect internal organs. This requires comprehensive care that goes beyond treating the underlying disease.
Rheumatism in Austria: An often underestimated widespread disease
In Austria, around 25% of the population suffers from rheumatic complaints – and among those over 55 years of age it is even 40%. What is particularly worrying is that between 200,000 and 290,000 people suffer from inflammatory rheumatic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus, which often occur between the ages of 30 and 40. “It is crucial that we differentiate between different forms of rheumatism.”
explains Dr. Caroline Peter, rheumatologist at the Hietzing Clinic. “While degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis tend to affect older people, inflammatory rheumatic diseases can also affect younger people and can be chronic.”
The risk of comorbidities: More than just a joint disease
A major problem for patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases is the increased risk of comorbidities. “We know that rheumatism patients have a significantly higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks or strokes.”
explains Dr. Peter. In addition, the likelihood of osteoporosis increases for many of those affected, as the systemic inflammation affects bone metabolism and taking cortisone, which is often used for treatment, can further weaken the bones.
Mental Illness: An Often Overlooked Component
A particularly serious problem is the increased risk of mental illness, particularly depression. “Rheumatologists know that patients with rheumatoid arthritis have a significantly higher risk of developing depression.”
explains the expert from the Hietzing Clinic. “Rheumatoid arthritis patients with depression report more severe pain, chronic fatigue and greater mobility restrictions. There is also a significantly increased overall mortality rate – this is 80% higher than in patients without depression.”
Holistic care that takes both psychological and physical symptoms into account is crucial for the long-term health and quality of life of those affected.
Early screening: important prevention of comorbidities
Structured screening of rheumatism patients plays a central role in identifying and treating comorbidities at an early stage. Regular examinations, including cardiovascular checks, pulmonary function tests and bone density measurements, are essential to identify risk factors. Dr. Peter emphasizes: “Our goal is to diagnose comorbidities as early as possible and treat them specifically so that patients can lead a life as pain-free as possible.”
Lifestyle as prevention: What those affected can do themselves
In addition to medical care, lifestyle factors play a central role in preventing and reducing comorbidities. “A balanced diet, regular exercise and stress management go a long way toward reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.”
said Dr.in Peter. “In particular, giving up smoking can make a significant contribution to improving the quality of life.”
Dr. Peter encourages patients to seek regular advice from their treating rheumatologist about individual risks and to talk openly about psychological stress. “It is important to actively take your own health into your own hands and receive comprehensive care.”
Sources: Austrian Rheumatology Report 2023
https://www.gesundheit.gv.at/krankheiten/koerper/rheuma/was-ist-das.html