Nagpur, 4th February 2025: AIIMS Nagpur successfully observed Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day 2025 with an eventful programme aimed at spreading awareness about the early detection and management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), organized by the Departments of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, General Medicine, and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. The theme of this year’s event was “Informed Choices, Better Outcomes (Rainbow of Care).”

The event took place in front of the Medicine OPD, 2nd Floor, AIIMS Nagpur, from 10 AM to 11:30 AM and saw participation from faculty members of the Departments of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, General Medicine, and Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, as well as MBBS and nursing students and patients. The Chief Guests for the event were Dr. (Prof) Prashant Joshi (Executive Director and CEO, AIIMS Nagpur), who educated the audience about rheumatoid arthritis, along with Dr. Mrunal Phatak (Dean, Academics), Dr. Siddharth Dubhashi (Dean, Student Welfare), and Dr. Sunita Kumbhalkar (Professor and HOD, General Medicine).

The scientific sessions featured Dr. Abhilasha Manwatkar (Assistant Professor, Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology), who delivered an informative talk on rheumatoid arthritis, emphasizing the importance of early detection for better long-term outcomes. Dr. Rohit Gaikar (Assistant Professor, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation) spoke about the role of rehabilitation in rheumatoid arthritis, highlighting the significance of physical therapy and multidisciplinary care.

To engage students and spread awareness, various activities were conducted, including a Nukkad Natak performed by MBBS students to educate the public on RA symptoms and treatment. Additionally, a painting competition on the theme “Informed Choices, Better Outcomes” was organized for MBBS and nursing students to encourage creative expression on RA awareness.

In a significant announcement, the Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, in collaboration with the Departments of General Medicine and Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, launched a dedicated Rheumatoid Arthritis Clinic that will now be operational every Wednesday to provide specialized care to RA patients.

As part of patient education efforts, RA awareness booklets were distributed to RA patients, equipping them with essential knowledge about the disease, lifestyle modifications, and treatment options.

The event successfully highlighted the need for early diagnosis and multidisciplinary management of rheumatoid arthritis, reinforcing AIIMS Nagpur’s commitment to improving patient care and community health through education and awareness.