[Dynamics of the basic statistical indices in rheumatic diseases].

The authors have analysed the State statistics data concerning the Soviet Union for 10 years with respect to the changes in the indices for morbidity, prevalence, invalidity, fatality and temporary incapacity for work in rheumatism and chronic diseases of the joints. It has been established that on the one hand the health of the population suffering from rheumatic fever improves but on the other hand the prevalence of chronic diseases of the joints according to the attendance to polyclinics and temporary incapacity for work due to diseases of the osteomuscular system steadily increase. The task of the rheumatological service of the country is to improve organization of effective prophylactic medical examination and therapy of patients with rheumatic diseases of the joints.