Every year Ankylosis spondylitis day is observed on the 7th of May globally. According to the medical data, 69% of the patients are either misdiagnosed or remain unaware of ankylosing spondylitis i.e., inflammatory arthritis affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints causing pain in the lower back, hip, and pelvic pain. Several reports suggest that 1.65 million people are diagnosed with the condition in India with an estimated annual growth percentage of 2.95% globally.

Dr. PD Rath Rheumatologist, Max Hospital stated that the cause of the condition is not clear, however, it is believed to be genetic. He explained that the gene HLA B27 is triggered by changes in lifestyle patterns and environmental factors initiate the disease manifestation. He added that ankylosing spondylitis presents severe back pain and stiffness in the morning with improving condition with the progression of the day. Dr. Ved Chaturvedi stated that the auto-inflammatory nature of the disease encourages the patients to be careful about their lifestyles and activities. Dr. Nilesh Nolkha, Wockhardt Hospitals Ltd., Mumbai stated that severe lower backache and pain in the buttocks contributing to any discomfort during sleep are the first key to identifying the condition. Also, any pain that causes immobility and inactivity before the age of 45 years can be an indicator of pain due to AS.

He further stressed that accurate treatment and diagnosis are important to stop the further worsening of the symptoms. He explained that treatment methods such as biologics can help in slowing down the disease progression by inhibiting the structural damage caused by AS such as fusion of bones, or formation of new bones. Also, he emphasized the importance of a daily routine, lifestyle changes, a healthy diet, and self-monitoring the condition with regular consultations from a rheumatologist can help in the long run.

(Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/ankylosing-spondylitis-symptoms-importance-of-early-diagnosis-treatment-101651719507191.html )