Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of General Practitioners and Nonrheumatologists on Rheumatoid Arthritis in Burkina Faso in 2024: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background and Aims

Rheumatoid arthritis is still poorly understood by medical personnel in sub-Saharan Africa, resulting in significant diagnostic delays. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of general practitioners and nonrheumatologist specialists regarding rheumatoid arthritis.

Methods

This was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study from January 22 to February 22, 2024. Data were collected using an online self-administered questionnaire from general practitioners and nonrheumatology specialists practicing in Burkina Faso. The association between variables was tested using the chi-squared test. The significance level was set at 5%.

Results

One hundred and forty-five physicians completed the questionnaire. The mean age of the participants was 32.01 ± 4.066 [25; 47] years. The proportion of men was 62.10% (90). The proportion of general practitioners was 61.40% (89). The mean knowledge score was 12.51 ± 2.741 [4; 18] out of 20. Of the 145 physicians who completed the questionnaire, 22.76% (33) were confronted with rheumatoid arthritis in their practice. The mean attitude score was 9.64 ± 3.389 (3 − 16) out of 20. The mean practice score was 14.76 ± 2.292 (9 − 19) out of 20. Physicians with average/good knowledge had no idea about biotherapy in 72.90% (62) of the cases, compared to 27.10% (23) who had an idea about biotherapy (p = 0.001). Physicians with average/good knowledge had unfavorable attitudes in 58.30% (14) of cases compared to 41.70% (10) who had favorable attitudes (p = 0.42). Physicians with average/good knowledge had inadequate practices in 29.20% (7) of cases versus 70.80% (17) with adequate practices (p = 0.019).

Conclusion

The majority of participants had an acceptable level of knowledge, attitude and practice regarding rheumatoid arthritis.