Core Viewpoint - Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) predominantly affects young males, and early diagnosis and standardized treatment are crucial to prevent disability [1][2][3] Group 1: Disease Characteristics - AS is a chronic inflammatory disease that leads to inflammation at the tendon insertion points of the spine, resulting in fibrosis and calcification, which can cause spinal stiffness [1] - The incidence of AS is relatively low in China, but the total number of patients is significant, with a male-to-female ratio of 2:1 to 3:1, and the peak age of onset is between 20 and 30 years [2] - Common symptoms include pain in the neck, chest, lower back, buttocks, hips, and large joints, with severe cases leading to spinal deformities and stiffness [2][3] Group 2: Diagnosis and Treatment - The average delay in diagnosis from the onset of symptoms to confirmation can take several years, often due to patients' lack of awareness about AS [3] - Early diagnosis is critical as there are currently no medications that can reverse joint deformities already present in AS patients [3] - Treatment options include non-drug therapies such as exercise, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), traditional disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biological agents like Adalimumab [5][6] Group 3: Patient Management and Education - Patients are encouraged to engage in daily physical activities, starting with low-intensity exercises to improve joint function and prevent stiffness [4][6] - Smoking is identified as a risk factor that can worsen AS symptoms, and quitting smoking is recommended for better outcomes [6] - Maintaining a positive mindset is emphasized as it can enhance the effectiveness of standardized treatment [6]

Core Viewpoint - Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the axial joints, often misdiagnosed as other conditions like lumbar muscle strain. Early intervention is crucial for managing the disease effectively [2][5][6]. Summary by Sections Disease Overview - Ankylosing spondylitis is characterized by inflammation starting at the sacroiliac joints and progressing to the spine, leading to chronic pain and stiffness [2]. - The disease primarily affects the sacroiliac joints, spinal joints, and major joints in the limbs, potentially causing limited mobility and severe deformities if untreated [2][6]. Symptoms and Diagnosis - Patients often experience significant pain at rest, which improves with activity, contrasting with other lumbar conditions where pain worsens with movement [3]. - The average time from symptom onset to correct diagnosis can take seven to eight years, with many patients misdiagnosed due to non-specific symptoms [2]. Demographics and Risk Factors - The prevalence of ankylosing spondylitis in China is approximately 0.3%, with a higher incidence in young males aged 20-30 years [4]. - Genetic factors, particularly the HLA-B27 gene, and environmental factors such as humidity and high altitude may increase the risk of developing AS [4]. Treatment and Management - Although AS cannot be completely cured, effective management through standardized treatment can control disease progression and improve quality of life [6]. - Key management strategies include maintaining good posture, regular exercise, a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, and regular medical check-ups [6][7][8].

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of raising public awareness about axial spondyloarthritis, a condition that primarily affects young and middle-aged men, leading to high misdiagnosis rates and significant health burdens [1][2][3]. Group 1: Disease Overview - Axial spondyloarthritis is an immune-mediated inflammatory disease affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints, categorized into radiographic and non-radiographic forms [2]. - The average time from symptom onset to correct diagnosis can take seven to eight years due to the nonspecific nature of symptoms like back pain [2][3]. Group 2: Symptoms and Risks - Common symptoms include persistent back pain, buttock pain, and less frequently, eye inflammation and gastrointestinal issues [2][3]. - If untreated, the disease can lead to irreversible spinal deformities and loss of mobility, significantly impacting the patient's quality of life [3]. Group 3: Treatment Advances - Over the past 20 years, the introduction of targeted therapies, such as JAK inhibitors, has revolutionized the treatment landscape, shifting the focus from merely pain relief to achieving functional improvement and preventing structural damage [4]. - Most patients require lifelong treatment, and personalized treatment plans are essential due to the variability in disease progression [5]. Group 4: Importance of Rehabilitation - In addition to medication, maintaining good posture and engaging in tailored rehabilitation exercises are crucial for improving spinal mobility and reducing disability rates [5]. - A customized rehabilitation program, ideally designed by a rehabilitation specialist, is recommended to avoid exacerbating the condition while helping patients return to normal life [5].