Rheumatology research output in the Arab world: Despite the challenges

ABSTRACT

Background: Rheumatology is a field of daily advancements in terms of diagnostics, pathophysiology, and management. Such advancements are the result of basic sciences, translational, and clinical research. Physical and financial support, which are provided by individuals and organizations, are vital for any form of research. The political and financial instability in the Arab world has affected the process of healthcare advancement and the research output. Material(s) and Method(s) This review looked into the number of rheumatological clinical publications that individual Arab countries produced from 2017 till 2021 which were cited by PubMed/MEDLINE. Publications that included authors from multiple countries were excluded. Publications were then sorted according to type;randomized controlled trial (RCT), cohort, cross-sectional, systematic review, narrative review, and case report. Publications were also sorted according to the Arab world regions;North and East Africa (NEA), Middle East (ME), and Arabian Peninsula (AP). Result(s) Egypt had the highest number of publication among NEA countries, and all Arab countries in general, with 261 publications including 23 RCTs. Saudi Arabia had the highest number of publications among AP countries with 81 publications. However, no individual AP country published a RCT. Lebanon had the highest number of publications among ME countries, but the majority of publications were reviews and case reports. Notably, the number of publications increased in certain countries during the COVID-19 era. Conclusion(s) Despite the political instability and lack of funds, the Arab world is still able to produce clinical rheumatological publications. The impact of such publications on the daily practice of Rheumatology remains questionable.