Evaluation of functional ability of Thai patients with rheumatoid arthritis by the use of a Thai version of the Health Assessment Questionnaire

Methods. The Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) was translated into Thai and its validity and applicability were assessed in 22 Thai patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) before and after 6 months of treatment with disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). The activities in three subcategories of the Thai HAQ were modified, including Eating, Hygiene and Activities. Two common activities in Thai people were incorporated into the items in the Grip and Arising domains. Results. Significant improvements in mean HAQ scores and other parameters were observed after DMARD therapy. Mean HAQ scores correlated significantly with tender joint count, patient global and physician global assessments, and grip strength. Conclusions. The Thai HAQ met validity requirements and can be used in the measurement of functional capacity of Thai RA patients.