We kindly ask all the patients with various rheumatic diseases to complete the questionnaire aiming to help understand whether respiratory infections or exposure to harmful environmental factors could be potential contributors to systemic connective tissue diseases or arthritis.

The pathogenesis of many rheumatic diseases remains unknown. For many of them, it is believed that the occurrence of the disease requires the coexistence of genetic susceptibility and exposure to environmental factors. The respiratory tract is a place of constant interactions between the body and the external environment. Upper respiratory tract infections are one of the most common diseases we face in our lives.

The study is non-invasive and does not involve any risk for you. The survey is anonymous. No personally identifiable information will be collected. It will take approximately 6-8 minutes to complete the survey. The study is not associated with direct benefits for the respondents, but may contribute to the development of knowledge about rheumatic diseases. Participation in a research study is completely voluntary. By completing the questionnaire, you agree to participate in the study.

The study received the positive opinion and agreement from the Bioethical Committee of the Medical University of Lodz, Poland (No. RNN/328/20/KE of 12/01/2021).
If you have any questions, please contact us by e-mail: klinikareumatologii@skwam.lodz.pl

Yours faithfully,
Department of Rheumatology, Medical University of Lodz, Poland