DOI: 10.36347/sajp.2019.v08i12.002

Pages: 527-530

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease with significant effects on patient related quality of life. Adherence to antirheumatic drugs has been shown to ameliorate the effect of rheumatoid arthritis on quality of life. Data regarding the effect of adherence on quality of life among rheumatoid arthritis patients in Jordan is lacking. Methods: Data from rheumatoid arthritis patients referring to the rheumatology outpatient clinic in King Hussien Medical Center were retrieved and their adherence and quality of life was assessed using the SF-36. Results: One hundred and seven patients were recruited in this study with a median age of 53.69 years. Females represented more than 75% of the study population. Adherence was reported in more than 85% of the participants. Adherence was associated with better physical functioning score as compared to non-adherent (31.6667 vs. 22.7516, p=0.035). Conclusion: Adherence has a positive effect on physical functioning among rheumatoid arthritis patients. Patients suffering rheumatoid arthritis alone are more likely to be adherent and achieve the positive effect of adherence on physical functioning.