Information for Medical Professionals

GPs need to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis earlier

Doctors need to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis earlier in order to limit the amount of damage the condition causes, it has been claimed.

According to Lynn Love, director of operations at the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society, there are a number of effective treatments for the condition, which afflicts more than half a million people in the UK alone.

"If people got diagnosed and were given effective treatment quicker, they would stand a chance of stopping the terrible destruction that can occur," Ms Love said.

She added that maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise can help to ease pain in those with rheumatoid arthritis.

Her comments follow the publication of a report by the House of Commons public accounts committee, which showed that GPs generally receive just two hours worth of training in how to diagnose and treat patients suffering from musculoskeletal disorders.

The report also noted that sick leave and work-related disability cost the economy £1.8 billion a year.

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