Abstract

RAMIREZ PRECIADO, Marialita Catalina et al. Evaluation of biologic treatment in rheumatoid arthritis in Peruvian older adults: A systematic review. Revista InveCom [online]. 2026, vol.6, n.1, e601017.  Epub July 15, 2025. ISSN 2739-0063.  https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15249985.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that mainly affects older adults, significantly impacting their functionality and quality of life. Although biological treatments have demonstrated efficacy in controlling the disease, their access in Peru continues to be limited due to economic, structural, and infrastructural barriers. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and accessibility of biological treatments in Peruvian older adults with RA, identifying the main challenges and opportunities to optimize their implementation in the Peruvian health system. A systematic review of 269 studies published between 2015 and 2024 in databases such as PubMed, Scopus, SciELO and LILACS was carried out, from which 7 articles were selected that addressed the use of these treatments, their adverse effects and access in the Peruvian context. The results reveal that, although biological treatments are effective in controlling RA in older adults, challenges persist in terms of safety, adherence, and access. Barriers such as high cost, limited availability in less complex hospitals, and difficulties associated with access protocols were identified. The adoption of biosimilars, the decentralization of care, and the strengthening of telemedicine are emerging as key strategies to expand coverage and optimize the management of the disease in this vulnerable population.

Keywords : rheumatoid arthritis; biologic treatment; older adults.

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