10, October 2025: While Osteoarthritis (OA) is often called the “wear-and-tear” arthritis that comes with aging, Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) tells a very different story. RA is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects 13 million Indians according to a 2021 report. In this condition, your body’s defense system—normally designed to fight off infections—mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues. In RA, this attack is focused on the synovium, the soft lining of your joints that produces fluid to keep them moving smoothly.
This misguided immune response leads to chronic inflammation, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. Over time, it can damage cartilage and bone and even affect other organs if left untreated. Furthermore, without early and effective treatment, it can cause permanent joint damage and disability
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Experts, especially rheumatologists, are raising concerns on the need for greater awareness of RA in India, particularly among women, who are disproportionately affected by the disease between the ages of 30 and 60. Despite its growing prevalence, RA remains under-recognized and underserved. This can lead to irreversible damage and disability if not diagnosed early.
Dr. Shailaja Sabnis, Consultant Rheumatologist, Sneh Nursing Home & Nanavati Hospital, Mumbai, “RA is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks its own joints. This can lead to permanent damage, making early diagnosis and treatment crucial to slow progression and relieve pain. It often starts subtly. Hence, spotting RA early can be challenging, but red flags such as morning stiffness that lasts for more than 45 minutes, persistent joint swelling, unexplained low-grade fever, and crushing fatigue should prompt immediate medical evaluation.”
One of the key signs of Rheumatoid Arthritis is symmetry. If one wrist hurts, the other often does too. RA commonly affects the small joints in the hands and feet, but it can spread and evolve over time—making even simple tasks difficult for some. While symmetrical joint pain is a hallmark, RA can also show up asymmetrically, especially in early stages or when fewer joints are involved(6). RA pain has a unique pattern. It often feels worse in the morning or during rest and may improve slightly with movement. But with prolonged activity, the pain can return or even intensify. This cycle of stiffness, relief, and flare-up is unique to RA—and recognizing it early can help guide timely treatment.
Dr Ankith Rai, Associate Director, Medical Affairs, Abbott India, said, “Rheumatoid Arthritis isn’t just “arthritis of old age.” It’s a chronic autoimmune condition that requires more than just symptomatic relief. What’s crucial is not just early diagnosis, but sustained, personalized care that adapts to the evolving nature of the disease. At Abbott, we’re focused on empowering both clinicians and patients with tools that support timely intervention and long-term management — because timely intervention can make a real difference in quality of life.”
Diagnosis and Treatment: Key to Managing RA
A thorough evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional is crucial for diagnosing RA. Diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical evaluations, laboratory tests, and imaging studies(5). The goal of RA treatment is to help patients live well—today and in the long run. This means controlling symptoms, preventing joint damage, restoring function, and enabling everyday life activities, including work and social engagements.
Managing rheumatoid arthritis starts with finding the right treatment plan. One option your doctor may recommend is biologics — specialized treatments that target the parts of your immune system causing joint pain and inflammation.
Biosimilars are medicines designed to work just like biologics. They offer the same safety and benefits as the original biologic, with a similar way of working, but often at a lower cost. This means more people can access advanced care without compromising quality. Your doctor will recommend the option that best fits your symptoms and treatment needs.
You can also incorporate a few lifestyle changes to manage RA:
• Exercise regularly: Regular exercises such as swimming, cycling, walking or yoga can help reduce pain, morning stiffness and fatigue, improve functional ability and psychological well-being.
• Keep a Balanced diet: Healthy dietary habits can be useful in reducing the risk of RA, related comorbidities, and its progression.
• Managing Stress: Mind–body therapies such as meditation, yoga, and mindfulness may help patients with RA.
Preventing Delays: Why Awareness Matters
RA is not simply a condition of aging—it’s a progressive autoimmune disease that can cause lasting damage if overlooked. Early signs like persistent joint stiffness, fatigue, or swelling should not be ignored. With early intervention and personalized care, people living with RA can lead active, fulfilling lives. Let’s work together to spread awareness, encourage timely diagnosis, and empower informed decisions—because early action can help change the course of the disease.