Every modern society should have two goals for its chronically ill citizens: optimal therapeutic treatment of the disease and social support and reintegration.

Autoimmune rheumatic diseases are a heterogeneous group of diseases that often affect individuals in the most productive period of their lives. They cause joint pain and stiffness, weakness and fatigue, and if not timely and effectively treated, they lead to significant disability. These diseases follow a course with exacerbations and remissions during the periods of exacerbation, patients are unable to work, they need modification of their therapeutic management and rest.

Today, with the progress in understanding the pathogenesis of these diseases, we have many categories of effective drugs that suppress inflammation and correct bone damage in joints. However, despite our therapeutic intervention, a percentage of patients do not respond to treatment, which leads to work days lost and possible premature retirement due to disability.

The "Citizen's Guide to Rheumatic Diseases" is an essential and valuable tool for every patient. It is also useful for healthcare professionals dealing with this category of diseases.

The authors have wisely divided their work into three main chapters. The first part provides useful information about the diseases. In the second part, the authors summarize the regulations of the state and insurance funds regarding the possibilities of healthcare, education, employment, disability, retirement, conscription, and other benefits and facilities for these patients. The third part provides useful information about pregnancy, exercise, and diet.

This guide is well-written and easily understandable, without lacking scientific accuracy.
[...]
(from the book's preface)