Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis in Soweto, South Africa
Author Information
Author(s): Marguerite Schneider, Esther Manabile, Mohammed Tikly
Primary Institution: Human Sciences Research Council, Pretoria
Hypothesis
What are the personal and social consequences of rheumatoid arthritis in women living in impoverished conditions?
Conclusion
Women with rheumatoid arthritis in Soweto experience pain and social exclusion, exacerbated by poverty and lack of basic services.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants reported significant pain and difficulties in daily activities.
- Environmental barriers included lack of transport and basic services.
- Many participants felt socially excluded and had lost their sense of self-worth.
Takeaway
Women in Soweto with arthritis face a lot of pain and find it hard to do everyday things, especially because they don't have enough money or services to help them.
Methodology
A qualitative case study design with semi-structured in-depth interviews.
Limitations
The study's cross-sectional nature and lack of categorization of participant responses based on disease activity.
Participant Demographics
Mean age of participants was 52.8 years, with a range of 29 to 60 years; varied marital status and living situations.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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