Twenty Years of Targeted Treatment in Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Greek Databases: Achievements and Unmet Needs

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Immunology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease with significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in challenging cases.
• Biologic agents were introduced in Greece 20 years ago, aligning with European trends in RA management.
• Greek publications have documented various aspects of RA, including epidemiology, biologic therapy use, and comorbidity management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evolution of rheumatoid arthritis management in Greece over the past two decades.
• To discuss the achievements and persistent unmet needs in treating RA in Greece.
• To provide a perspective on the impact of biologic therapies in RA management.

Main Methods:

• A review of RA management and its evolution in Greece over the last 20 years.
• Discussion of major achievements and unmet needs in the context of European RA management.
• Analysis of the impact of biologic therapies on difficult-to-treat RA cases.

Main Results:

• Biologic therapy introduction has significantly altered the treatment landscape for difficult-to-treat rheumatoid arthritis.
• RA management in Greece has progressed, mirroring European experiences.
• Despite improvements, multiple unmet needs remain in comprehensive RA care.

Conclusions:

• Biologic therapies have substantially improved outcomes for patients with difficult-to-treat rheumatoid arthritis in Greece.
• Continued efforts are needed to address remaining unmet needs in RA management.
• The positive impact of biologic therapies on patients' quality of life is undeniable.