Pos0903 a New Era of Care: Redefining Reproductive Health Care for Middle Eastern Women with Rheumatic Diseases

Abstract

Background: Rheumatic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus, create significant health challenges for women of childbearing age in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Despite the critical need for specialized reproductive health services, access remains limited due to cultural barriers, insufficient healthcare resources, and healthcare provider training gaps. Objective(s): This study evaluates the advancements in reproductive healthcare for women with rheumatic diseases across the MENA region since the 2016 publication by Al-Emadi et al. [1], which highlighted significant gaps in care for these women during their childbearing years. We aim to analyze the current state of services, identify persistent challenges, and propose actionable strategies for improvement. Method(s): In September 2024, we conducted an online survey targeting rheumatology societies in 18 MENA countries, assessing various aspects of reproductive healthcare, including the availability of high-risk pregnancy clinics, multidisciplinary clinic presence, rheumatologist training programs, and educational campaigns for women. Responses were collected from 9 countries and were compared with findings from a 2016 study. Result(s): Survey results indicate progress, with 5 additional countries (Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, Sudan, Iraq) establishing high-risk pregnancy clinics since 2016, alongside those in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Egypt, bringing the total to eight (Table 1). The survey also identified that most countries have multidisciplinary clinics, and some offer training for rheumatologists focused on managing rheumatic diseases during pregnancy. However, disparities in access to care persist, influenced by geographic and financial barriers. Many countries continue to lack comprehensive family planning services and sexual health education. Cultural stigma and the absence of specific regional guidelines further hinder effective care for women with rheumatologic conditions. [Figure presented] Conclusion(s): Enhancing reproductive health care for women with rheumatic diseases in the MENA region requires a comprehensive strategy. This should involve expanding access to high-risk pregnancy clinics, improving training for rheumatologists, and formulating region-specific guidelines. Increased awareness initiatives and coordinated multidisciplinary care are essential to overcoming barriers and improving health outcomes. Collaboration among healthcare disciplines can lead to substantial advancements in reproductive health services for this vulnerable population. REFERENCES: [1] Al-Emadi S, Abutiban F, El Zorkany B, Ziade N, Al-Herz A, Al-Maini M, et al. Enhancing the care of women with rheumatic diseases during pregnancy: challenges and unmet needs in the Middle East. Clin Rheumatol. 2016; 35: 25-31. [Table presented] Acknowledgements: NIL. Disclosure of Interests: None declared. © The Authors 2025. This abstract is an open access article published in Annals of Rheumatic Diseases under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). Neither EULAR nor the publisher make any representation as to the accuracy of the content. The authors are solely responsible for the content in their abstract including accuracy of the facts, statements, results, conclusion, citing resources etc. Copyright © 2025 © Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2025. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by Elsevier Inc.