|
St.
John's Medical Research conducts rheumatoid arthritis study
Oct. 1, 2005
More than 2 million Americans suffer from mild to severe rheumatoid arthritis
(RA). St. John’s Medical Research in Springfield is currently conducting a
Phase III clinical study for the treatment of RA, known as the Rheumatoid
Arthritis Study. Dr. Anne Winkler is leading this effort locally and is
currently enrolling patients into the study.
Those
interested in learning more about the Rheumatoid Arthritis Study or in finding
out if they may be eligible to participate may call St. John’s Medical Research
at 417-841-0250 or toll-free at 1-866-207-0167.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammation of the lining of the joints. This
inflammation is what can cause pain and swelling – the most common symptoms of
RA. Over time, inflammation may also cause permanent damage to the bone and
cartilage of joints. This damage may limit the function of the affected joints.
To
address their RA pain, sufferers often use aspirin and other over-the-counter
pain relievers. If these pain relievers do not provide adequate relief,
physicians may also prescribe medications.
No one
knows for sure what causes RA, but medical researchers believe RA is the results
of a person’s immune system responding incorrectly. Usually, the immune system
keeps a person healthy by fighting off germs and infections. However, in people
with RA, it is believed that the immune system attacks healthy joint tissue by
mistake, causing the inflammation – and therefore the swelling, pain, and joint
damage – of rheumatoid arthritis.
People
who may be eligible to participate in the Rheumatoid Arthritis Study include men
or women who are 18 years of age or older and have a confirmed diagnosis of
moderate-to-severe, active RA for six months or more. In addition to the
opportunity to possibly receive the investigational drug, study participation
includes close monitoring of the patient’s rheumatoid arthritis and
study-related care at no cost to the participant.
For
more information please contact:
St.
John’s Medical Research
417-841-0250 (phone)
1-866-207-0167 (toll-free phone)
ehicks@sprg.mercy.net
|