Correlation Between Body Mass Index and Disease Severity in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients

Authors

  • Muhammad Shiraz Niaz Author

Keywords:

rheumatoid arthritis, body mass index, DAS28, obesity, disease severity, inflammatory markers, weight management, SPSS analysis

Abstract

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease influenced by various factors, including body mass index (BMI). Higher BMI is associated with increased RA disease activity and reduced treatment efficacy. The relationship between BMI and disease severity in RA requires further investigation to inform management strategies. Objective: To evaluate the correlation between BMI and disease severity in patients with RA, emphasizing its clinical implications. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 127 patients with RA recruited from a tertiary care center. BMI was calculated as weight (kg) divided by height (m²), and disease severity was assessed using the Disease Activity Score-28 (DAS28). Demographic and clinical data, including age, sex, disease duration, and laboratory markers (CRP, ESR), were collected. Pearson’s and Spearman’s correlations evaluated relationships, while multiple regression controlled for confounders. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Results: The mean age was 50.3 ± 11.9 years, and the cohort included 66.1% females. The mean BMI was 28.2 ± 4.3 kg/m², and the mean DAS28 was 4.7 ± 1.2. A significant positive correlation was found between BMI and DAS28 (r = 0.39, p < 0.001). Obese participants had higher DAS28 scores (5.0 ± 1.1) compared to overweight (4.5 ± 1.0) and normal-weight individuals (4.0 ± 0.9, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Higher BMI was associated with increased RA disease activity, particularly in obese individuals. Weight management should be prioritized in RA care to improve outcomes.

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Published

2024-12-31

How to Cite

Correlation Between Body Mass Index and Disease Severity in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients. (2024). Link Medical Journal of Health and Community Research, 2(2), 1-3. https://linkmjhcr.com/index.php/lmj/article/view/21