Rheumatic Diseases in Sudan

Sudan is the third-largest African country and is characterized by rich multicultural and ecological diversity. The burden of rheumatic diseases in Sudan is substantial, although the exact number of cases remains undocumented due to the lack of a comprehensive database. However, the prevalence of these diseases is evident through the significant number of patients seeking admission to hospitals and receiving follow-up care in outpatient clinics. In response to the growing need for specialized rheumatology care, the Rheumatology Fellowship Program was launched in 2018 after approval by the Sudanese Medical Specialization Board. Prior to this program, physicians had to travel abroad for additional training in rheumatology. As of January 2026, three batches have successfully completed the rheumatology fellowship training program, while a fourth batch comprising five trainees is currently undergoing training. In recent years, Sudan’s health system and infrastructure have been significantly challenged by prolonged sociopolitical instability. The civil war, known to be one of the longest in modern history, started in 1983 and remains prevalent in certain regions. Furthermore, the recent revolution against the military government in 2019 has had a substantial impact on the overall health sector, specifically affecting patients with rheumatic conditions due to the country’s deteriorating economy. Unfortunately, access to healthcare is limited, with only about nine central public hospitals providing services, most of which are concentrated in the capital city of Khartoum. Additionally, the cost structure of private hospitals may be perceived as high, potentially limiting affordability for a significant portion of the population. Health insurance coverage is currently available to a restricted segment of the population. Unfortunately, there are certain medications and investigations that are not covered by existing insurance plans. The availability of advanced therapies remains constrained, with logistical and supply challenges affecting certain pharmaceutical companies and healthcare institutions. The most prevalent rheumatic diseases in Sudan are rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and gouty arthritis. Despite ongoing challenges, multiple initiatives are underway to strengthen rheumatology services, including the expansion of training opportunities and increased emphasis on research capacity building. Efforts to improve disease awareness and to enhance the collection of local epidemiological data remain key priorities for advancing rheumatologic care in Sudan.