| This original research article investigates the prevalence of bone fractures in individuals diagnosed with rheumatoid
arthritis (RA) and explores associated risk factors and patterns of fractures. A cohort of 80 RA patients, predominantly
female (88.7%), with a mean age of 52 years, was studied. Disease duration varied, with 35% experiencing RA between 2-
5 years of diagnosis. Common risk factors, including family history of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis, as well as
smoking, were assessed. Site-specific distribution of bone fractures was analyzed, and the relationship between
corticosteroid use duration and fracture incidence was explored. The study identified a diverse temporal spectrum of RA,
with a notable proportion experiencing the disease within 2-5 years of diagnosis. Despite the majority having no identified
risk factors, familial connections to osteoporosis (12.5%) and rheumatoid arthritis (7.5%), along with a small percentage of
smokers (2.5%), were observed. The site-specific distribution of bone fractures revealed spinal vertebrae, hips, carpal
bones, and peripheral sites as common locations. Notably, 22% of RA patients experienced fractures due to falls. The
relationship between corticosteroid use duration and fracture incidence exhibited varying rates across different periods.
This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the prevalence and associated factors of bone fractures in RA
patients. The findings underscore the multifactorial nature of fracture susceptibility in this population and emphasize the
need for personalized risk assessments and targeted interventions to improve skeletal health in individuals living with
rheumatoid arthritisddd |
