The relationship between body composition, disease activity, and functional status in adults with rheumatoid arthritis (1031.15)

Abstract

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic disease causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and disability. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between body composition, disease activity, and functional status in adults with RA (n=84; age 53 ± 14 y; BMI 29.3 ± 7.3 kg/m2; duration of disease 13.4 ± 9.3 y). Height, weight, waist circumference, grip strength, and body composition (bioelectrical impedance assessment) were measured. Waist‐to‐height ratio (WHtR), fat mass index (FMI; kg/m2), and fat‐free mass index (FFMI; kg/m2) were calculated for each participant. C‐reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), duration of morning stiffness, and the Multidimensional Health Assessment Questionnaire (MDHAQ) determined disease activity and functional status. Partial correlations (controlling for age) examined relationships between variables. Body fat % and FMI were positively associated with CRP, ESR, physical function, pain score, and global status (p<0.05). WHtR was positively associated with CRP, physical function, pain score, and global status (p<0.05). Grip strength was positively correlated with FFMI (p<0.01) and negatively correlated with body fat % (p<0.05). In this study, higher body adiposity was associated with greater disease activity and poorer functional status. Interventions promoting a healthy body composition in individuals with RA may improve quality of life.Grant Funding Source: Supported by NYU Steinhardt Faculty Challenge Grant