DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF AN EDUCATIONAL AND HEALTH INFORMATIONAL WEBSITE FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

• Grant number: 25/00340-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: April 01, 2025
• End date: March 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
• Principal Investigator: Paula Regina Mendes da Silva Serrão
• Grantee: Giovana de Almeida Gozzi
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde (CCBS). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease affecting 0.5% to 1% of the adult population, impairing joint function and impacting quality of life, work capacity, and social participation. Despite the availability of pharmacological treatments, such as DMARDs and glucocorticoids, and non-pharmacological approaches, including exercise, health education, and self-management, low treatment adherence and the risk of disease progression necessitate the adoption of new strategies. Self-management aims to empower patients and their families, reducing barriers and improving the physical and mental well-being of patients, as recommended by EULAR. Digital technologies (E-health), such as websites and apps, extend the reach of education by overcoming geographical barriers and providing accessible, up-to-date information. While positive outcomes have been observed in other chronic conditions, there are currently no specific websites developed for RA. Therefore, combining technologies with self-management and health education is essential to develop an educational website for patients diagnosed with RA, aiming to empower them and contribute to improved quality of life while reinforcing their active role in managing their health.Objective: The study aims to develop and validate a website with health information for individuals diagnosed with RA.Materials and Methods: This is a technological development study. The website development process will follow the instructional design model proposed by Filatro and Piconez, divided into three stages:Analysis and Planning Stage: The content will be structured based on prior research and the clinical experience of the researchers, with information organized into menus.Modeling Stage: The website will be created using the Google Sites platform, featuring a clear and accessible layout. Textual content will be developed in Microsoft Word and evaluated using the Flesch Reading Ease Score to ensure appropriate readability.Implementation and Validation Stage: This includes site formatting followed by content evaluation by rheumatology healthcare professionals using a Likert scale to assess scientific accuracy, clarity, and information quality.For usability evaluation, RA patients will be guided to navigate the site and subsequently respond to the System Usability Scale (SUS) questionnaire. Following the final stage, the finalized website will be made freely available to the public and disseminated through social media and primary healthcare units to reach and assist as many patients as possible.