Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a long-term condition that causes inflammation and pain in the joints.

RA symptoms most typically affect the hands, wrists and knees. Among the signs and symptoms are discomfort or aching in several joints, stiffness in multiple joints, soreness and swelling in multiple joints.

During flares or exacerbations, these symptoms and indications become more prominent.

The inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis can lead to bone degradation and joint deformities over time.

Rheumatoid arthritis has no cure, however, physiotherapy and medicines can help reduce the disease's course.

Speaking on Ultimate Health on Joy FM, Dr Dzifa Dey said, "in Ghana, there is a shortage of rheumatologists (only two), physician specialists so the aim is to have general practitioners and other specialists to have some basic knowledge in diagnosing and even start the right treatment."

According to her, there is a perception that Africans don't suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. Therefore, there is the need for data to inform health authorities about the existence of this condition which is taking over the health system, especially affecting the young working population.

Also on the programme, Franklin Hiagbe who lives with RA and a coordinator of RA support group said that arthritis support groups are critical because it gives knowledge and awareness of one's condition to enhance moods, provide coping skills, lessen pain, and provide a respite from unpleasant feelings.

"Therefore it is critical that people with arthritis surround themselves with a supportive community," he added.