Some aspects of present-day preventive rheumatology

Summary

The highly successful results achieved in the prevention of rheumatic fever in those countries where adequate facilities exist and steps have been taken to introduce prophylactic measures on a large scale underline the importance of preventive rheumatology. Too little attention has been paid in the past, however, to the prevention or limitation of the effects of other so-called rheumatic diseases such as gout and the arthroses. The latter, in particular, are becoming more prevalent and serious with the larger number of patients living on into old age. Basic research into the aetiology of these disorders and the screening in good time of populations at risk are important steps leading towards earlier diagnosis and the development and adoption of suitable, effective prevention measures. The authors review some of the present-day possibilities in preventive rheumatology and advocate the creation and organization of special services, consultative and educational procedures to develop and implement prophylaxis on a much wider scale than before.

Key Words::

• Rheumatism
• preventive medicine