SP0020 THE GLOBAL CHALLENGE AND OPPORTUNITY FOR PAEDIATRIC RHEUMATOLOGY

Abstract

Background: Poorly developed healthcare systems and the overwhelming burden of communicable diseases have limited the growth and development of Paediatric Rheumatology in non central and less resourced countries.1,2 Most children on earth reside in these less resourced environments and suffer from disproportionately poor access to adequate care for paediatric rheumatic diseases. Emerging evidence suggests that rates of rheumatic diseases are not likely to be different to European and North American children but that diseases severity and outcomes may be worse and that children in these countries face the additional burdens of poverty, socio-political instability and communicable diseases.3,4 Objectives: To review the current situation and challenges faced by the children in less resourced countries with rheumatic diseases and those who provide medical care for them, and to explore opportunities that will drive the global development of paediatric rheumatology to the benefit of all children with rheumatic diseases. Methods: A thorough review of published literature and gaps in knowledge on the epidemiology and outcomes of childhood rheumatic diseases from less resourced countries. A review of current and planned global initiatives to improve Paediatric Rheumatology care in less resourced countries. Results: Despite increasing emerging data on paediatric rheumatic diseases from less resourced countries, data on paediatric rheumatic diseases from less resourced countries are sparse. Paediatric rheumatology services in most countries remain inadequate or non-existent to serve the needs of the population, despite encouraging growth in some areas. Improvements in healthcare systems in these countries offer opportunities for the growth of paediatric rheumatology care. Greater genetic diversity and different disease profiles offer opportunities for the advancement of genetic and environmental influences on rheumatic diseases. Conclusion: An organised effort from the paediatric rheumatology global community can play an important role in the development of education, networks, services and research capabilities that could lead to increased scientific growth and clinical benefits for all children with rheumatic diseases, regardless of their geographical or socio economic position.