Rheumatic Diseases Amidst Conflict in Northwest Syria: Unveiling Health Challenges and Implications

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Public Health
• Conflict Medicine

Background:

• The Syrian conflict has critically damaged the healthcare system, especially rheumatology services.
• Northwestern Syria faces severe infrastructure challenges impacting patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the current status of rheumatic diseases in northwestern Syria.
• To assess the availability of rheumatology diagnostics and treatments.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 488 patients with rheumatologic conditions from September 2019 to February 2022.
• Data collected from internal medicine outpatient clinic records.
• Review of available investigations and medications in the region.

Main Results:

• Connective tissue disorders (25.6%), osteoarthritis (12.1%), and rheumatoid arthritis (8.2%) were most prevalent.
• A severe shortage of rheumatologists (3 for 5.5 million) and disrupted diagnostic services were noted.
• Medication scarcity and increased costs significantly complicate patient management.

Conclusions:

• Urgent improvements in healthcare services are needed for rheumatic patients in northwest Syria.
• Addressing the gaps in rheumatology care requires targeted interventions and resource allocation.