QUALITY OF LIFE AND ADHERENCE TO THERAPY IN PATIENT WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Abstract

Relevance: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that leads to progressive joint damage and 
systemic complications. It significantly reduces patients' quality of life (QoL), affecting their physical, psychological, and 
social well-being. Assessing QoL is a crucial criterion for evaluating treatment effectiveness and requires the use of 
specialized instruments and questionnaires. This study aims to assess changes in QoL and treatment adherence among RA 
patients over one year of baseline therapy using the SF-36 and HAQ questionnaires. 
Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 109 patients with a confirmed RA 
diagnosis (ACR/EULAR 2010 criteria). Enrollment took place in 2021, with reassessment after 12 months. Clinical 
parameters (DAS28, VAS), QoL measures (SF-36, HAQ), and treatment adherence (Morisky-Green questionnaire) were 
evaluated. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 26.0. 
Results: The mean age of the patients was 56.3 years, with 77% being women. After one year of therapy, a statistically 
significant improvement in QoL was observed: the physical component of SF-36 (PCS) increased by 8.3 points, and the 
psychological component (MCS) increased by 10.6 points (p < 0.001). The HAQ index decreased by 0.4 points, indicating 
improved functional status. However, only 59.6% of patients demonstrated high adherence to treatment, while 40.4% had 
low adherence, which correlated with poorer QoL scores and higher disease activity. 
Conclusions: High treatment adherence positively influences QoL and disease activity in RA patients. Additional 
strategies, including digital technologies, counseling, and personalized treatment approaches, are necessary to enhance 
adherence and optimize patient outcomes.