OUR MISSION
The Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society is committed to alleviate the suffering and the socio-economic impact of autoimmunity through initiating, fostering, and facilitating collaboration in the areas of education, public awareness, research, and patient services in an effective, ethical, and efficient manner.OUR VISION
To offer a happy and pain free life for all About usPatient Awareness
Collectively, Rheumatic diseases are a major public health issue affecting millions of people especially middle-aged and elderly across the globe. Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society works tirelessly to raise widespread awareness about the disease, help patients learn how to take care of themselves, what symptoms to look out for and monitor, and to slowly become their own advocates, taking a more engaged role in treatment decisions. KARS strives to reach maximum number of patients through various initiatives.
Research
Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society convenes rheumatologists, physicians, clinical pharmacists and researchers from across disciplines to explore the various aspects of rheumatic diseases to unlock breakthrough treatments and someday, cure.
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Research
These are some of the published studies that were funded by Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society:
Switching to teleconsultation for rheumatology in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic: feasibility and patient response in India
DOI: 10.1007/s10067-020-05200-6
Correspondence on ‘SARS-CoV-2 antibody response after COVID-19 in patients with rheumatic disease.
DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2021-220148
Safety of the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 and the BBV152 vaccines in 724 patients with rheumatic diseases: a post-vaccination cross-sectional survey.
DOI: 10.1007/s00296-021-04917-0
Inactivated vaccines may not provide adequate protection in immunosuppressed patients with rheumatic diseases.
DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2021-221496
Hybrid immunity versus vaccine-induced immunity against SARS-CoV-2 in patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases.
DOI: 10.1016/S2665-9913(21)00356-8
Antibody responses after documented COVID-19 disease in patients with autoimmune rheumatic disease.
DOI: 10.1007/s10067-021-05801-9
Effects of face masks on oxygen saturation and functional measures in patients with connective tissue disorder-associated interstitial lung disease.
DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2021-220230
Clinical and psycho-socioeconomic impact of COVID-19 pandemic on patients of the Indian Progressive Systemic Sclerosis Registry (IPSSR)
DOI:10.1093/rap/rkab027
Post vaccination antibody titres predict protection against COVID-19 in patients with autoimmune diseases: survival analysis in a prospective cohort.
DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2021-221922
Patient Care and Education
Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society is committed to empowering and educating patients to ensure they are supported throughout their journey from getting to a diagnosis, identifying treatment options, accessing care, managing comorbidities, and improving quality of life.
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Patient Care and Education
Drug Fee Concession Scheme
The Patients who undertake treatment at Dr. Shenoys’s care generally suffer from Rheumatic diseases that affect their immune system. Patients diagnosed with such diseases have chances of getting physical deformities and pain leading to limitations of physical functioning. Several patients who are suffering from these diseases come from an extremely poor backgrounds and have financial constraints which prevent them from continuing treatment and medication. The high cost of drugs accounts for significant out-of-pocket expenditures on health care, which can be catastrophic for the poor. Many patients do not have regular access to essential medicines. Two stark realities are there, many people opt out of treatment because of financial constraints. Second, a sizeable population is driven to poverty every year because of physical limitations and pain due to the disease. The drug fee concession scheme through its Free Medicine/Financial Assistance to Poor Patients could be a harbinger of change. Therefore, through the drug fee concession scheme Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society aims at expanding the availability of free drugs for patients belonging to the below poverty line (BPL) category who are unable to afford drugs. Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society offers a fund of 50,000 INR per month for the implementation of the Drug Fee Concession scheme. The patient falling under the eligibility criteria can apply for this service once in every 6 months.
Drug fee concession was given to the following no. of patients: -
44 patients in the year 2016-2017
113 patients in the year 2017-2018
137 patients in the year 2018-2019
70 patients in the year 2019-2020
Medical camps
Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society is in a unique position to support the healthcare needs of the local community. With a modern hospital and a rural outreach programme, KARS provides a bridge between the two through the addition of its medical camps. We therefore organize free health camps across rural and semi urban facilitating easy access for the people they serve. KARS has standardized their first level of service delivery through camps and screening programmes which includes a thorough check up by a doctor, distribution of free medicines along with medical tests namely BP, Blood Sugar and Haemoglobin(Hb) monitoring.. These timely interventions provide early diagnosis and treatment reducing the incidence of morbidity and mortality. Such health camps also help in addressing immediate health care needs of the marginalized communities.
a. 2016 – Chakulathukaan Sanjeevani Trust, Kottayam
The Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society, in hands with Thirumanakara Bhramana Samodh, funded and organized a one-day free medical camp for the benefit of public at Kottayam in 2016. The event was inaugurated by Thirumeni Thiruvanjoor Radhakrishnan.
b. 2017 – Srikaran Charitable Trust, Fortkochi
The Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society, in hands with Srikaran Charitable Trust, funded and organized a one-day free medical camp for the benefit of public at Fortkochi in 2017. The event was inaugurated by Kochi Mayor Soumini Jain.
c. 2017 – St. Paul Church, Vytilla
The Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society, in hands with St. Paul Church, funded and organized a one-day free medical camp for the benefit of public at Vytilla in 2017.
d. 2018 – Medical College, Kottayam
The Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society, in hands with Medical college, funded and organized a one-day free medical camp for the benefit of public at Kottayam in 2018. The event was inaugurated by medical superintendent of Kottayam Medical College.
e. 2018 – Chingavanam, Kottayam
The Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society, in hands with Seva Bharathi, funded and organized a one-day free medical camp for the benefit of public at Kottayam in 2018.
f. 2019 - Kanjirapally-Ponkunnam
The Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society, in hands with KVMS Hindu Medical Mission Hospital, funded and organized a one-day free medical camp for the benefit of public in Kanjirapally-Ponkunnam in 2019. Its organizing team was led by Dr. Padmanabha Shenoy.
Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society
Programmes
Arthritis Awareness Class
On 10/02/2024, the Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society conducted an awareness class at St. Sebastian's School Auditorium in Kanjoor. The class was conducted with the help of the Rajagiri School of Social Sciences department and was aimed at senior citizens above the age of 60 , 70 participants were present at the class. Dr. Anuroopa Vijayan conducted the class and cleared the doubts of the elderly participants.
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World Arthritis Day 2023
World Arthritis Day event was conducted on the 15th of October each year with the aim to raise awareness about arthritis and provide support for individuals living with this condition. The event held at JLN Stadium was organized by the Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society (KARS) in collaboration with Shenoy’s CARE.
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World Scleroderma Day 2023
In accordance with World Scleroderma Day, KARS(Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society) together with CARE (Centre for Arthritis and Rheumatism Excellence), celebrated Scleroderma Day on July 2nd, 2023 at Cochin Gymkhana, Vytila from 9 am to 1pm.
read moreWorld Arthritis Day 2023
World Arthritis Day event was conducted on the 15th of October each year with the aim to raise awareness about arthritis and provide support for individuals living with this condition. The event held at JLN Stadium was organized by the Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society (KARS) in collaboration with Shenoy’s CARE. This year 2023, the World Arthritis Day Theme was "Living with an RMD at all stages of life". This day sought to bring together individuals, healthcare professionals, and communities to increase understanding and support for arthritis. With the presence of distinguished guests, informative presentations, and a moving skit, the event left an indelible impact, reinforcing the importance of unity in the fight against arthritis.
Program Highlights
Walkathon: The event commenced with a spirited walkathon holding hydrogen balloons, where participants, including patients, their families, and healthcare professionals, came together for a brisk walk. This walk symbolized the importance of physical activity and joint health in arthritis management
Balloon Release: Following the walkathon, participants engaged in a symbolic balloon release. The colorful balloons ascending to the sky served as a powerful gesture of hope and solidarity for people living with arthritis
Medal bestowal ceremony: The medal presentation ceremony was a heart-warming and inspirational moment, reminding everyone in attendance of the strength and resilience of arthritis patients who continue to lead active lives despite their condition
Honouring Arthritis Day Champion : Mrs. Helen Monai, was honored as the Arthritis Day Champion 2023. Her extraordinary achievement of climbing Mount Everest up to the base camp served as an inspiring testament to the strength and resilience of arthritis patients. Helen began by expressing her gratitude for the opportunity to address the audience, acknowledging the significance of the event in raising awareness about arthritis. She spoke with sincerity, passion, and a touch of humility, captivating the hearts of those present.
Dr. Anuroopa extended a warm and heartfelt welcome to all the distinguished guests and patients attending the program. The esteemed retired Honourable Justice KS Radhakrishnan graced the event as the chief guest. He delivered an inaugural speech that emphasized the idea that "your mind is your best doctor" reflects the recognition of the powerful influence of mind that plays a crucial role in maintaining and improving one's health, and in some cases, it can even contribute to the healing process.
Dr Padmanabha Shenoy shared his expertise and insights on the latest developments in arthritis treatment and management. His talk provided valuable information and guidance to attendees. Dr. (Col) Vishal Marwaha, delivered a keynote address. Felicitation speech was given by Dr. Sanjana Joseph and Dr.(Brig) Narayanan. As a highlight of the event, the CARE staff and junior doctors performed a compelling skit. The skit performance primarily highlighted three major themes; Difficulty with Daily Tasks, Lack of family support and Understanding and the need for Medical Follow-up. The program concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks to all participants, sponsors, and volunteers who contributed to the event's success. This gesture highlighted the importance of collective efforts in raising awareness about arthritis. Following the formal proceedings, breakfast and beverage were served to these participants.
Conclusion: The World Arthritis Day event was a resounding success with a participation of around 200 patients, family members, volunteers and doctors. The event demonstrated a significant step toward creating a society that is well-informed and compassionate, understanding the challenges faced by arthritis patients, and It reiterated the significance of early diagnosis, ongoing research, and community support in addressing the challenges posed by arthritis.
World Scleroderma Day 2023
In accordance with World Scleroderma Day, KARS(Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society) together with CARE (Centre for Arthritis and Rheumatism Excellence), celebrated Scleroderma Day on July 2nd, 2023 at Cochin Gymkhana, Vytila from 9 am to 1pm. The theme for this year's World Scleroderma Day is “Let's talk about Scleroderma” which intends to emphasize the need for increased scleroderma awareness, support, and advocacy for those affected by this lifethreatening disease. The event featured awareness talks by an eminent panel of doctors followed by Cultural activities and Luncheon.
The event was inaugurated by chief guest Dr Junaid Rahman, a well-known Medical director of Sree Sudheendhra Medical Mission.The special guest for the event was Dr. Malini Lavende a renowned Rheumatologist in Mumbai. A panel of Doctors comprising of Rheumatologist Dr Padmanabha Shenoy D, Dr Anuroopa Vijayan, Cardiologist Dr Jo Joseph, Dermatologist Dr Shyna S Theruvath and pulmonologist Dr Paramez educated the patients regarding Scleroderma manifestations, treatment advancements and their management. Question & Answer sessions were conducted and patient concerns were resolved.
The purpose of the Scleroderma Day Event was to raise awareness about SSc and its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options. The event also extended support to recently diagnosed patients and their families, encouraging them to meet other Scleroderma patients. Scleroderma Day event also helped increase visibility of KARS as a platform to receive donations/ financial aid from philanthropists, good Samaritans and any willing donors toward KARS patient fund. Our goals were as follows:
- 1. Spread Awareness about Scleroderma, its manifestations, diagnosis and treatment.
- 2. Making Scleroderma more visible to the general public.
- 3. Supporting patient doctor interaction to address concerns on pregnancy, skin and cosmetic concerns, lifestyle management and mental health.
The cultural session was begun by a dance performance followed by a skit performance by Dr Joicy, Dr. Anusree, Dr. Janet, Dr. Femi, Dr. Eleena. A song was sung by Vishnu and Nandu followed by a dance performance by Care staff Leena, Nitya, Ganga,Treesa and Greeshma.The programme was concluded with vote of thanks from Scleroderma clinic in charge Dr. Joicy Jose.
The event was conducted successfully with a participation of 150 plus patients, family members, volunteers and doctors. Patient Kits consisting of Woolen gloves, cotton socks , Moisturiser, coupons for free PFT test were distributed to all patients. Lunch and beverage were served to these participants following the event.
World Lupus Day 2023
In accordance with World Lupus Day, KARS(Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society) together with CARE (Centre for Arthritis and Rheumatism Excellence) and Lupus Trust India, celebrated Lupus Day on May 14th, 2023 at MES Hall, Kaloor Ernakulam from 9 am to 1pm. The theme for this year's World Lupus Day is “Make Lupus Visible” which intends to raise public awareness about lupus diagnosis and its social, economic and psychological impacts. The event featured awareness talks by an eminent panel of doctors followed by Cultural activities and Luncheon.
The event was inaugurated by chief guest Dr Rajeev Jayadevan, a well-known Gastroentrologist, national IMA scientific coordinator and former president of IMA Kochi whose presence and his words of wisdom made the programme glorious. The guest of honour for the event was actress Ms. Mamta Mohandas who herself is an autoimmune disease warrior. She spoke on the importance of family support and care, how to stay positive, how to not rely on the fake advises given by people around and most importantly a message to the general public that “What lupus patients need is Empathy and NOT Sympathy”. The patients could highly relate to what Mamta had shared. A panel of Doctors comprising of Rheumatologist Dr Padmanabha Shenoy D, Dr Anuroopa Vijayan, Gynaecologist Dr Indu BR, Dermatologist Dr Shyna S Theruvath, Nephrologist Dr. BR Bipi and psychiatric counsellor Ranjini C. educated the patients regarding Lupus Manifestations, treatment advancements and their management. Question & Answer sessions were conducted and patient concerns were resolved. Information regarding various state and central government initiatives to help Lupus patients financially were shared by the Lupus Trust Secretary Mr Dinesh Menon. Patients were also advised on how to approach for these financial aids.
The purpose of the Lupus Day Event was to raise awareness about SLE and its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options. The event also extended support to recently diagnosed patients and their families, encouraging them to meet other lupus patients, introduce them to Lupus Trust where they could meet other lupus patients to gain/provide support and educate patients about Lupus. Lupus Day event also helped increase visibility of KARS as a platform to receive donations/ financial aid from philanthropists, good Samaritans and any willing donors toward KARS patient fund. Our goals were as follows:
- 1. Spread Awareness about Lupus, its manifestations, diagnosis and treatment.
- 2. Making Lupus more visible to the general public.
- 3. Extending the network of Lupus patients by introducing them to Lupus Trust and its activities.
- 4. Supporting patient doctor interaction to address concerns on pregnancy, skin and cosmetic concerns, lifestyle management and mental health.
Lupus patient Ms. Sony SD shared her journey of following her dreams battling Lupus and inspired other patients by conveying through her story that “They need not be ashamed of Lupus and to walk with their heads held high”. In addition to that a lupus patient’s father Dr Charles P John also shared his experience of accepting his daughter’s disease and supporting her. He also came forward to sponsor a patient’s treatment. The cultural session was begun by a solo performance by patient Anova followed by a semi-classical dance performance by Dr Libin Benny and Dr Harsha. A duet song was sung by pharmacy staff Mr Sreenath and Dr Maria followed by a group dance performed by the junior doctors Dr Shwetha, Dr Anusree, Dr. Merin, Dr Joicy and Dr Femi. The programme was concluded with vote of thanks from Lupus Trust Secretary Mr. Dinesh Menon. The event was conducted successfully with a participation of 200 plus patients, family members, volunteers, doctors and trustees. Patient Kits consisting of Umbrella, T -shirts, sunscreen, brochures and coupons for free dsDNA & Lupus profile test were distributed to all patients. Lunch and beverage were served to these participants following the event.
Arthritis Awareness Class
On 10/02/2024, the Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society conducted an awareness class at St. Sebastian's School Auditorium in Kanjoor. The class was conducted with the help of the Rajagiri School of Social Sciences department and was aimed at senior citizens above the age of 60 , 70 participants were present at the class. Dr. Anuroopa Vijayan conducted the class and cleared the doubts of the elderly participants.
The class began with an introduction to arthritis and the common symptoms of arthritis. The participants had many doubts, which led to an interactive session. The major questions asked by the participants were related to numbness in legs, knee pain, Uric Acid, and ESR.
The program concluded at 12:30 pm. Due to the interaction and the doubts raised by the participants, the coordinator asked if they were interested in conducting a camp, to which the participants agreed. Dr. Anuroopa Vijayan was honored with a gift from the community in appreciation of her contribution to the awareness class on arthritis. This gesture reflects the gratitude of the community towards Dr. Anuroopa Vijayan for her valuable efforts in educating and addressing the concerns of the elderly participants.
Overall, the awareness class conducted by the Kerala Arthritis and Rheumatism Society was informative and helpful for the senior citizens who attended. The interactive session allowed for a better understanding of the topic and cleared any doubts that the participants had. The willingness of the participants to attend a camp shows the success of the program in raising awareness about arthritis and its symptoms