Antardhwani - A support Group for Ankylosing Spondylitis and Rheumatoid Arthritis patients.

India is witnessing a steady rise in chronic diseases such as Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), diabetes , and hypertension . While medical advancements have made these conditions more manageable, health insurance underwriting often continues to treat all chronic diseases as permanent high-risk conditions. A more evidence-based approach can create a fairer and more sustainable insurance system. Why the Current Approach Needs to Change Many insurers continue to classify chronic diseases as pre-existing conditions, leading to: Long waiting periods Coverage exclusions Higher premiums Limited policy options Patients with well-controlled conditions are often assessed the same way as those with active or uncontrolled disease, despite having different health risks. The Growing Need for Reform According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare , more than 8.64 crore people are currently receiving treatment for hypertension and diabetes under the National Programm...

Planning a pregnancy while living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) will require a lot of preparation, thought and will need to be carried out under the guidance of the medical team. Having RA means you have a chronic autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the joints and disruption to the way your immune system works. This all needs to be well managed before and during pregnancy in order to impact on as little as possible on your own health and that of your unborn baby. Many women with RA are able to have healthy babies. However, it’s very important to plan well before becoming pregnant. Control of the disease, following instructions from the doctor or midwife and a generally healthy lifestyle will all help. It is very important for women with RA to see their rheumatologist and medical team to try to reduce as many risks to the mother and unborn child as possible. Practical Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy with RA Follow an anti-inflammatory diet Consuming a balanced diet that incl...