Towards Elucidation of the Epidemiology of the Rheumatic Diseases in Mexico. COPCORD Studies in the Community

Abstract

Rheumatic diseases constitute a group of more than 200 clinical conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system and in most cases a number of other organs and systems. As a group, rheumatic diseases are highly prevalent in most populations of the world and their consequences span from joint pain and swelling to severe musculoskeletal and multisystemic diseases, leading to poor function, impaired health, and reduced survival. Epidemiologic studies describing the frequency, distribution, and determinants of diseases in human population are the initial strategies for disease control1. Despite the fact that the rheumatic diseases impose an important burden of illness in developed countries, little is known about the prevalence and impact of this group of diseases in developing countries. Not surprisingly, the rheumatic diseases are frequently unrecognized by health authorities and are not usually included in healthcare programs2. Consequently, …