Initial Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment: Does Female Age Matter?

Abstract

Introduction Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting females. In RA, the treat to target strategy necessitates an early and intensive approach to achieve disease control. (1, 2) However, the therapeutic options can adversely affect reproductive health and pregnancy. Hence, the age of female patients at presentation might be a factor in decision making; although, there is a scarcity of evidence to support this hypothesis. We analyzed prescribing trends in Kuwait to examine the effect of female age on initial treatment decision. Methods Retrospective analysis of patients enrolled in the Kuwait RA Registry from 2012 to 2024. Baseline characteristics and medication prescribed at the initial visit were analyzed based on age group. Results 1101 female patients were included and stratified into two age groups [Formula: see text]49 years and >49 years. 30.8% were [Formula: see text]49 years and had a higher proportion of rheumatoid factor (RF) n Anti-CCP positivity (82.4% vs 75.5%, p=0.087). There was no significant difference in the mean DAS-28 at baseline (3.2 vs 3.1, p=0.32). A numerically higher proportion of patients started methotrexate (MTX) in the >49 years group (59.4% vs 54%, p=0.090). No statistically significant difference was found between the groups in sulfasalazine (SSZ), hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), or leflunomide (Lef) use. Rituximab was the most prescribed biologic with no statistical difference between the groups in prescription rate (p=0.822); TNF inhibitors (TNFi) were prescribed more often in the >49 years group (16.5% vs 11%, p=0.022); adalimumab, highest TNFi, prescription was not statistically different between the groups; Etanercept was prescribed more often the >49 years group (7.7% vs 4.7% and 5% vs 1.2%) respectively. There was no statistical difference between the groups in monotherapy vs. combination therapy treatment strategy. Discussion & Conclusion This study showed that age at presentation does not significantly influence the initial choice of Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs in female RA patients in Kuwait. Other factors, such as completion of family and patient preferences, likely play a more critical role in treatment decisions. Further research is needed to explore these influences and optimize management strategies for RA in women, particularly concerning reproductive health.