Leading experts gathered at the second Arab Health Rheumatology Exhibition and Conference 2009 to discuss tackling musculoskeletal conditions at an early stage to limit damage and deformity.

The conference which was opened yesterday (March 18) by Dubai Bone and Joint Centre (DBAJ) at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Dubai will run up to March 20.

“Musculoskeletal problems account for the most number of visits to physicians and are also a leading cause of disability,” said the conference chairperson, Dr Humeira Badsha, consultant rheumatologist at DBAJ.

“This conference brings together leading experts from hospitals in the US, Europe and the Middle East to discuss advances in arthritis and related conditions and to ensure patients can be diagnosed early and receive appropriate treatment.”

Rheumatic disease refers to any type of arthritis, diseases, musculoskeletal pain disorders, and osteoporosis and there are over 100 conditions. Arthritis can affect anyone of any age, including children, though women tend to be affected more than men.

Pain can vary from mild to disabling, but all symptoms must be evaluated as they can indicate more serious underlying problems. Today, state of the art treatments are available for the majority of the rheumatic conditions.

DBAJ is the first private medical facility in the Middle East that offers comprehensive musculoskeletal treatment. Research conducted by DBAJ last year examined the incidence of weak bones, a condition which can lead to osteoporosis.

“We conducted a survey of 2,000 healthy people walking around a mall in the UAE,” Dr Badsha added.

“We checked the bone density and we found that amongst these 2,000 healthy adults where average age was 39 years, 30 per cent had a low bone mass. I hope this conference will help in raising awareness of the importance of early diagnosis.”

The conference provides valuable insight into new treatments for osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, for managing rheumatoid arthritis, the challenges in treating conditions in the Middle East and improving patient quality of life. – TradeArabia News Service