Global rheumatoid arthritis (RA) cases rose 13.2% since 1990, reaching 17.9 million in 2021. High-income regions like Western Europe and North America reported the highest incidence rates.

South Asia’s Growing Challenge: In South Asia, population growth and ageing are key drivers of RA burden, with India facing significant increases in DALYs (disability-adjusted life years).

Drivers: High SDI (sociodemographic index) regions are experiencing worsening inequalities, while low-middle SDI areas like India struggle with lack of healthcare access and underdiagnosis.

Lessons from Japan: The nation reduced RA disability rates through early diagnosis and use of biologicals, offering a roadmap to other regions.

Forecast: RA burden in South Asia is projected to rise to levels observed in high SDI countries by 2040. Institution of targeted policies for smoking control and efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure must be undertaken.