PREVALENCE OF ANEMIA IN ELDERLY PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Abstract

Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the joints and can cause anemia, especially the anemia of chronic diseases. Anemia in RA is linked to disease activity and iron metabolism problems. Elderly patients with RA often have different types of anemia. Anemia is common in this group and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Objective: To understand the prevalence of anemia in elderly individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. Methodology: Plan to conduct a descriptive literature review based on searches in the Natural Library of Medicine (PUBMED) and Electronic Library Online (SCIELO) databases using the descriptors Anemia, Elderly, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Prevalence, registered in the Health Sciences Descriptors (DECS). Following the inclusion criteria, our analysis included available scientific articles on the topic, published in Portuguese, English and Spanish in the last five years (2019 to 2023). Articles unrelated to the topic and prior to the period considered were excluded from the sample. Expected results: This study broadens the understanding of the relationship between rheumatoid arthritis and anemia in the elderly, seeking to discuss the importance of appropriate treatment to prevent complications. It contributes to the development of strategies aimed at improving the quality of life of the elderly, providing data for future research in the field.