Friday 5 from Rheumatology Network

This week, the Friday 5 from Rheumatology Network highlights patient knowledge via digital health applications, recruitment enhancements, and self-administered educational tools.

1. Survey Shows Positive Trends in Digital Health Applications During COVID-19 Pandemic

COVID-19 has created new challenges and opportunities in the way that rheumatologists care for chronically ill patients, including the introduction and prevalence of telemedicine and digital health applications (DHAs).

2. Fatigue in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Linked to Anxiety and Depression

While some patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) find it beneficial to receive anti-inflammatory therapy to treat their fatigue, there is increasingly more evidence that chronic diseases increase risk of psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety and depression, which need to be treated differently.

3. Recruitment Enhancement for Trials Aimed at Individuals At-Risk for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Investigators identified both facilitators and barriers for trial participation in patients at risk for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in order to enhance inclusion in trials designed to prevent RA.

4. Patients With Rheumatic Disease May Be at Higher Risk of COVID-19 Related Pneumonia

Patients with inflammatory rheumatic diseases (IRD) may be more likely to acquire severe pneumonia due to COVID-19, especially in patients with autoimmune disease who are being treated with rituximab.

5. Self-Administered Educational Tools in Management of Knee Osteoarthritis Improves Patient Knowledge

Study participants who received combined video and booklet education were more effective in changing self-care behaviors. The education tools additionally provided greater advantages for Spanish-speaking and less-educated patients.