Arthritis research & therapy
Comorbidity management in inflammatory rheumatic diseases: a dual-perspective survey of patients and rheumatologists
By Bartsch V, Habboub B, Knitza J and 4 others.
Abstract
Background
Comorbidities are major contributors to morbidity and mortality in patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases (IRDs). We assessed real-world implementation of European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) points to consider for comorbidity management and perceptions of responsibility.
Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional anonymous online survey among patients with IRDs and rheumatologists in Germany. Two questionnaires assessed demographics, perceived responsibility for comorbidity management, and implementation of preventive measures across five domains: cardiovascular risk, infections, malignancies, depression, and osteoporosis. Responses were analysed using descriptive statistics and group comparisons (chi-square, Fisher's exact, Mann-Whitney U tests).