Potential Impact of Online Self-Help Groups on Knowledge, Attitudes, and Quality of Life on Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis Study, in Saudi Arabia 2023/2024

• Published in: Annals of Rheumatology and Autoimmunity Vol. 4; no. 3; pp. 65 - 70
• Main Authors: Alkhdairi, Ahmad Abdulaziz, Alsugair, Mashael Mohammed, Alrashdi, Mousa Naser, Alrasheedi, Sami Moteq, Alzweihari, Ali Mohammed, Alharbi, Mariyyah Muqbil, Alqubays, Mayyaz Mohammed, Aljemeeli, Feras Abdulrahman
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: India Wolters Kluwer - Medknow 01.09.2024
• Edition: 2
• Subjects: Original Article; Telegram; quality of life; self-help; rheumatoid arthritis; Groups; WhatsApp
• ISSN: 2773-0522; 2773-0522
• DOI: 10.4103/ara.ara_21_24

Abstract Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by symmetrical inflammation of the joints and reduced quality of life (QoL). Limited research exists on how online self-help groups contribute to knowledge acquisition and enhancement. Aims: This study aims to fill this knowledge gap and estimate the impact of these groups on knowledge and QoL in RA patients. Subjects and Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted in WhatsApp and Telegram online groups in Saudi Arabia from September 1, 2023, to April 2024. The target population is the RA patients participating in online supervised self-help groups. A nonconvenient sampling technique is used to collect the data, and SPSS software is used to analyze the results. Results: 97.9% of participants were female, while only 2.1% of males participated in this research. 43.2% of participants were between the ages of 31 and 45 years. 36.9% of participants suffered from other rheumatoid or immune disease. All participants joined WhatsApp, Telegram, or both to learn about RA. Overall, most of the participants had satisfactory knowledge of RA. Their perceptions of joining the groups regarding RA were also clear and helpful. Conclusions: Findings indicate a notable understanding of RA via WhatsApp/Telegram, with improved QoL, yet revealing room for growth, mainly through targeted public education campaigns across diverse media platforms. Emphasizing inclusive online support networks could enhance RA management and improve the QoL of affected individuals in Saudi Arabia.