This is something not often seen in the highly competitive medical research community. “This program is a unique opportunity to accelerate RA research,” explains Dr. St.Clair. “The Within Our Reach–funded investigators are open to collaboration and information sharing because they want to find a cure for this disease—they want to help patients. It is unique, and it works.” Recent treatment advances have made it possible to stop, or at least slow, the progression of joint damage, but serious complications and premature death remain risks of RA. More research is needed to uncover the cause and to find the cure for RA.
During this two-day meeting, more than 30 RA studies were presented for peer-to-peer education, input, and collaboration. Investigators shared their research in clinical practice, discussed the link between RA and cardiovascular disease, examined the basis for bone and tissue involvement, and provided evidence for genetic links to the disease. “Most of these studies are in the beginning phases, and these investigators are diligently working to move them forward,” says Dr. St.Clair. “The exchanging of ideas and forming of collaborations at this meeting will catapult the field forward, which is exciting news for both the medical community and the patients we treat.”