Prevalence and factors associated with rheumatic diseases in a municipality in Espírito Santo

Abstract

Objective: To identify the prevalence and factors associated with rheumatic diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic in the city of Alegre, Espírito Santo. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out using a household survey between the months of November and December 2021. The sample of 624 urban residents was selected by conglomerates. The sample was characterized and the prevalence of rheumatic diseases was identified. Factors associated with rheumatic diseases were identified using Poisson regression with robust variance. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Federal University of Espírito Santo (UFES). Results: Among the 694 participants, 127 (18.3%) reported rheumatic diseases. Associated factors included advanced age (Prevalence Ratio (PR) = 3.24), female sex (RP = 2.10), worse quality of life (RP = 2.07) and presence of anxiety (RP = 1.58). Conclusion: The prevalence of rheumatic diseases was similar to that found in a national population-based study. Factors such as older age, female sex, worse quality of life and anxiety increase the prevalence of these diseases. The management of rheumatic diseases must be holistic, aiming to improve the quality of life and well-being of patients, in addition to ensuring adequate access to healthcare.