Articles tagged with Rheumatology
A new editorial by IOF members highlights the alarming high post-fracture mortality in Africa and emphasizes the need for a targeted, Africa-driven strategy. The authors propose five strategic priorities to build bone health into national health systems, education, and policy.
Twenty-three young investigators from 16 countries received the ESCEO-IOF Young Investigator Awards for their outstanding abstracts submitted to the WCO-IOF-ESCEO 2026 Congress. The awards aim to support and attract young researchers to the field of musculoskeletal research.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation has awarded Professor Roland Chapurlat the prestigious IOF Olof Johnell Science Award for his seminal contributions to understanding and managing osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and skeletal rare bone diseases. He is recognized as one of the leading clinical academics in the field worldwide.
Professor Radmila Matijevic received the IOF CNS Medal for her outstanding work in advancing bone health awareness, diagnosis, and management. Her contributions to osteoporosis research and clinical practice have improved patient care in Serbia and the wider Balkan region.
Professor Thierry Chevalley has received the prestigious IOF President's Award for his significant contributions to advancing bone health and osteoporosis prevention. With extensive research expertise in geriatrics and bone health, he serves on various scientific committees and leads efforts to develop fracture liaison services.
Professor Noriko Yoshimura has received the IOF CSA Medal of Achievement for her pioneering work on epidemiology and prevention of locomotive organ disorders and osteoporosis. Her research, including the ROAD Study, has significantly advanced understanding of musculoskeletal health.
Researchers have shown that PEPITEM supplementation can prevent or delay inflammatory arthritis by regulating the immune system. The study found that PEPITEM reduced arthritic joint swelling and inflammatory changes comparable to current standard care.
The EULAR recommends a multidisciplinary approach to managing Behçet's syndrome, aiming to prevent irreversible organ damage and maximize quality of life. The updated guidelines prioritize monoclonal TNFi for patients with eye, vascular, or nervous system involvement, promoting earlier recognition and more consistent care.
A new platform, Build Better Bones, offers evidence-based guidance and practical resources for osteoporosis management. The platform, developed by the International Osteoporosis Foundation, provides a trusted place for people with osteoporosis to start their journey, with a focus on exercise, nutrition, and home safety.
The 2025 update provides 5 overarching principles and 9 individual recommendations for managing rheumatoid arthritis, emphasizing patient-centered care and simplifying clinical approaches. The update prioritizes treatment targets, monitoring frequency, and the role of methotrexate, glucocorticoids, biologics, and JAK inhibitors.
A new review highlights the need for planned sequential bone therapy to reduce the risk of spontaneous vertebral fractures after denosumab therapy. Denosumab discontinuation can trigger a 'rebound phenomenon' marked by rapid bone turnover, bone loss, and potentially multiple vertebral fractures.
Mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) therapy has been validated as a transformative solution for rheumatoid arthritis through preclinical and clinical evidence. MSCs target RA via immunomodulation, tissue repair, low immunogenicity, and targeted migration, resulting in sustained benefits with minimal side effects.
The Asia Pacific Regional Audit highlights key trends, gaps, and opportunities in 22 countries and regions. The audit reveals a steep rise in fracture rates due to poor bone health and an ageing population, with China, Malaysia, and Australia experiencing significant increases.
The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) has introduced three overarching principles and 11 points to consider for assessing disease activity in AOSD. The guidelines emphasize the importance of adopting a valid, reliable, and easily transferable definition of disease activity, which includes fever, skin rash, arth...
A recent study found that TikTok videos about gout are often misleading, inconsistent, or inaccurate. Gout is a painful inflammatory arthritis caused by high urate in the blood, and there are persistent gaps in awareness among patients and the public.
NEJM Clinician curates highly relevant clinical insights from over 150 peer-reviewed journals to give physicians clear guidance without the noise. The weekly publication delivers summaries and commentary in a concise, 30-minute read, helping healthcare providers stay informed and confident in their decisions.
The 9th IOF Asia-Pacific Bone Health Conference will bring together healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers to exchange knowledge and shape the future of bone health across the region. The conference will feature keynote lectures, sponsored sessions, and a launch of the IOF Asia-Pacific Regional Audit 2025.
The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology has developed a new disease activity score (EAPSDAS) to assess clinical manifestations in antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). The score evaluates thrombotic, obstetric, microvascular, and non-thrombotic symptoms, providing insights into disease activity and treatment response.
A new review provides simplified criteria for defining gout remission and proposes integrated management strategies for sustained disease control. The authors highlight the importance of individualized urate-lowering therapy and proactive flare prevention, using imaging to show patients visual proof of crystal dissolution.
Researchers developed a points-based classification model using eight variables to assess joint pain, genetic mutations, and iron loading. The criteria show promise in diagnosing haemochromatosis arthropathy with high specificity and sensitivity, paving the way for new treatment options.
The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) is hosting the EULAR 2026 Congress in London, featuring a scientific program with new clinical data and updated treatment guidelines. The congress will also provide exclusive media opportunities, including a press conference and one-on-one interviews with expert panelists.
EULAR has established new points to consider and consensus definitions for managing difficult-to-treat psoriatic arthritis, aiming to improve treatment options and care for patients. The guidelines focus on identifying the biology behind treatment non-response and promote personalized treatment approaches.
The new guidelines focus on the role of kidney biopsy, combination immunosuppressive treatment, and kidney protective drugs to prevent chronic kidney disease progression. They also address specific guidance for patients with renal response versus those with persistently active or relapsing disease.
The EWRR Congress will become an integral part of EULAR's meeting portfolio from 2027 onwards. The event aims to attract young scientists and provide opportunities for networking and collaboration.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation identifies critical global barriers to osteoporosis care, including limited DXA scanning and outdated treatment criteria. The IOF advocates for a paradigm shift in bone health management worldwide, recognizing high fracture risk as a valid criterion for treatment and reimbursement.
The new guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for patient management, identifying high-risk individuals and enhancing outcomes. The guidelines address specific ILD management algorithms for underlying rheumatic diseases, supporting comprehensive care for patients with CTD-ILD.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation has issued an updated joint position statement on managing aromatase inhibitor-associated bone loss in women with hormone-sensitive breast cancer. The guidelines incorporate recent clinical trials and systematic reviews to provide evidence-based treatment algorithms for assessing fracture risk ...
Researchers explore the biological mechanisms of myopenia in RA, finding it affects individuals of all ages, with notable muscle mass loss without concurrent fat loss. The review highlights the diagnostic and therapeutic relevance of myopenia in RA, emphasizing the importance of early detection and tailored management strategies.
The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) journal Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases (ARD) has achieved a notable increase in its impact factor to 20.6, surpassing 58 other titles in rheumatology and reaffirming its status as the leading journal for original research in both basic and clinical fields. This recognitio...
A comprehensive review highlights the impact of anti-cancer treatments on bone health, increasing the risk of fractures and bone fragility. The International Osteoporosis Foundation advocates for a multidisciplinary approach to early screening and proactive bone-protective strategies.
A landmark review highlights how diabetes alters bone microarchitecture and increases fracture risk in people with type 2 diabetes, despite normal or elevated bone mineral density. The authors advocate for updated diagnostic tools, including a revised TBS algorithm, to more accurately reflect bone quality in individuals with central ob...
Recent studies suggest that early biologics in severe psoriatic arthritis may not significantly benefit patients compared to standard step-up care with methotrexate. However, a study found that intensive therapy with early biologics or combination csDMARDs can rapidly control disease activity and maintain better outcomes at 1 year.
The recombinant zoster vaccine was found to be well-tolerated in patients with inflammatory rheumatic musculoskeletal diseases, with only a few reports of flare and serious AEs. The majority of patients tolerated the vaccine without significant adverse events.
The IOF Advanced Course on Osteoporosis is a comprehensive, 18-hour online training programme designed to equip healthcare professionals with the latest knowledge in osteoporosis prevention, diagnosis, and management. The course aims to promote timely diagnosis and treatment, reduce patient burden, and improve global outcomes.
Twelve young researchers from around the world receive ESCEO-IOF Young Investigator Awards for their groundbreaking studies on osteoporosis. The prestigious awards were presented during the World Congress on Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis & Musculoskeletal Diseases (WCO-IOF-ESCEO 2025) in Rome, Italy.
Dr. Elizabeth M. Curtis has been awarded the ESCEO-IOF Pierre Meunier Young Scientist Award for her groundbreaking research on musculoskeletal health and bone disease. Her work focuses on the epidemiology of bone, muscle health, and joint health across the lifespan.
Professor Atsushi Suzuki, Chair of Endocrinology at Fujita Health University School of Medicine, Japan, received the IOF President's Award for his exceptional contributions to IOF. He has shared his expertise as a mentor and engaged member of the Capture the Fracture Governance.
Dr Ambrish Mithal, an Indian endocrinologist, has been awarded the prestigious IOF CSA Medal of Achievement for his groundbreaking work in advancing the field of osteoporosis. His pioneering efforts have significantly increased understanding and awareness of osteoporosis globally.
AMMOM has been recognized by the IOF for its significant contributions to osteoporosis awareness and bone health in Mexico. The organization has collaborated extensively with the IOF on various initiatives, including joint scientific meetings and advocacy efforts.
A new study from the University of Bath reveals that delays in diagnosing and treating psoriatic arthritis often result in irreparable damage to joints. Early diagnosis and effective treatment can prevent this damage and improve physical function and quality of life for patients with PsA.
A new consensus paper emphasizes the role of bone turnover markers (BTMs) in diagnosing and managing osteoporosis. BTMs, such as procollagen type I N propeptide (PINP) and β-isomerized C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (β-CTX-I), are invaluable tools for predicting fracture risk and monitoring treatment adherence.
A study found that misdiagnoses of autoimmune diseases like lupus and vasculitis can lead to increased depression, anxiety, and lower mental wellbeing in patients. Clinicians are calling for greater awareness and support for patients affected by these misdiagnoses.
A new study of 2,900 patients with lupus pericarditis found that using corticosteroids increases the risk of recurring pericarditis. The study suggests minimizing corticosteroid use and exploring alternative treatments to reduce recurrence rates.
The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) has released a set of points-to-consider on the initiation of targeted therapies in patients with inflammatory arthritis and a history of cancer. The guidance aims to help healthcare teams manage treatment decisions while balancing risks and benefits.
Researchers developed a precision medicine approach that uses high-tech microscopy to analyze individual immune cells and identify cellular phenotypes correlated with disease activity and therapeutic response. This study represents a major step forward in tailoring therapies for rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases.
A new pilot study sheds light on the numerous barriers to effective osteoporosis management, revealing profound knowledge gaps and misinformation. Key findings highlight the need for clear education and trust-building in osteoporosis care.
Young people with juvenile rheumatoid diseases (jRMDs) often struggle to manage their condition into adulthood, leading to worse disease outcomes. EULAR's new guidelines aim to enhance knowledge and health literacy through personalized support, promoting long-lasting behavioral changes.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation's Capture the Fracture campaign highlights top-performing Fracture Liaison Services that deliver gold-standard care. These services prioritize continuous care, tailored treatment plans, and teamwork to reduce secondary fractures and improve patient outcomes.
The EULAR 2025 Congress in Barcelona will feature pioneering research, clinical advancements, and patient-centred innovations in rheumatology. Accredited press representatives will have access to exclusive interview opportunities with key speakers.
The new guidelines aim to unify the diagnosis and management of children and adults with Still's disease, previously separated by age. The recommendations emphasize shared decision-making between patients and treating teams, and prioritize achieving drug-free remission through treat-to-target strategies.
A new study reveals that couples living with rheumatoid arthritis who engage in joint problem-solving and emotional support experience lower depression and anxiety. The research highlights the importance of dyadic coping in improving relationship quality and patient well-being.
Researchers found that targeting neutrophils' metabolic process, glycolysis, reduces NET formation and subsequent blood clots in APS patients. The strategy doesn't increase bleeding risks.
A new position paper argues that single race-agnostic FRAX models would unfairly discriminate against Black, Asian, and Hispanic communities. The authors recommend retention of ethnic and race-specific FRAX models for the US with updated data on fracture and death hazards.
A new study published in Arthritis & Rheumatology found that chronic air pollution exposure may increase the risk of developing systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a condition that affects multiple organs. Individuals with high genetic risk and high air pollution exposure had the highest risk of developing lupus.
Researchers found that specific combinations of interferon proteins, including I, II, and III, are associated with various lupus symptoms like skin rashes, kidney inflammation, and joint pain. Elevated levels of these interferons can lead to severe disease presentations.
A third Covid vaccine dose has been shown to improve defensive antibody responses in some clinically extremely vulnerable patients. The trial found that 90% of patients who received a booster dose developed significant antibodies, but more than half of those with low initial responses saw no improvement.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) and ESCEO presented awards to 20 young investigators from 16 countries for their outstanding research abstracts. The awards recognize the researchers' contributions to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of osteoporosis and related musculoskeletal diseases.
Professor Leith Zakraoui was awarded the 2024 IOF CNS Medal for his dedicated work in advancing musculoskeletal health at both national and international levels. He has been a key figure in strengthening IOF activities in Africa and promoting education and awareness within the region.
The International Osteoporosis Foundation has presented the prestigious IOF President’s Award to Professor Peter Ebeling AO in recognition of his longstanding contributions to advancing the work of the IOF. He is an internationally renowned expert in bone health, with a total of over 536 peer-reviewed publications and a h-index of 93.
The World Congress on Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Diseases will showcase new clinical research from over 1507 submitted abstracts. The event will offer valuable knowledge to help clinicians treat patients more effectively in their daily practice.