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Not all juvenile arthritis is the same

Researchers identified molecular pathways involved in both systemic and arthritic components of SJIA, revealing differences in affected organs. The study found that glucocorticoid signalling was more heavily involved in inflammation associated with SJIA, highlighting the need for tailored treatment plans.

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalBMC Medicine·DateOct 22, 2012

Cancer rate 4 times higher in children with juvenile arthritis

Research finds that children with JIA have a significantly increased cancer risk, with rates 3.9 times higher for methotrexate-only patients and 4.4 times higher overall compared to peers without the disease. The study suggests that treatment, including TNF inhibitors, may not be directly linked to this increased risk.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateFeb 13, 2012

Lumbar disc degeneration more likely in overweight and obese adults

A large study found that overweight and obese adults are more likely to have disc degeneration than those with a normal body mass index. Disc degeneration was associated with an increased number of levels of degenerated disks and greater severity of disc degeneration, including narrowing of the disc space.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJan 30, 2012

Poor sleep habits linked to increased risk of fibromyalgia in women

A longitudinal study published in Arthritis & Rheumatism found a strong association between poor sleep habits and the risk of developing fibromyalgia in women. The study, which followed over 12,000 women for ten years, found that women with severe sleep problems were at increased risk of developing fibromyalgia.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateNov 14, 2011

Gout prevalence swells in US over last 2 decades

A new study finds that gout prevalence has risen significantly in the US adult population, affecting 8.3 million people, while hyperuricemia affects 43.3 million adults. The study suggests that managing modifiable risk factors like obesity and hypertension could help prevent further escalation of gout and hyperuricemia.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJul 28, 2011

Blue collar workers work longer and in worse health than their white collar bosses

A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that blue collar workers are more likely to suffer from arthritis and reduce their quality of life due to health conditions. The research highlights the need for enhanced federal programs, including disability and health insurance, to support these workers.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJul 21, 2011

Most consumers want predictive tests to learn if a disease is in their future

A national survey found that 76% of people would take a predictive test to learn about their future health risks, with willingness to pay varying by disease type and accuracy. Respondents were more likely to pay for tests related to breast and prostate cancer, and were willing to alter lifestyle choices after receiving positive results.

Narcotics and diagnostics overused in treatment of chronic neck pain

A study published in Arthritis Care & Research found that narcotics and diagnostic tests are overused in treating chronic neck pain, with only 53% of subjects prescribed therapeutic exercise. The researchers suggest that evidence supports the effectiveness of rehabilitation conditioning and acupuncture as treatments for chronic neck pain.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateOct 27, 2010

Black women with SLE develop cardiovascular disease at early age

A recent study found significant racial disparities in the age of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients at the time of hospital admission for cardiovascular disease (CVD) events and CVD-related death. Black women were youngest to both be admitted with CVD and to have an in-hospital death due to CVD.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateAug 19, 2010

TNF blockers may increase the risk of malignancy in children

A study by FDA researchers found a higher incidence of malignancy in children using TNF blockers like infliximab and etanercept. The reporting rate for U.S. cases of malignancy in children was 4-18 times the estimated background rate for the general pediatric population.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateJul 29, 2010

Slow-release NSAIDs pose greater risk of GI bleeding

A Spanish Centre for Pharmacoepidemiological Research study found that slow-release NSAIDs increase the risk of gastrointestinal complications, including GI bleeding and perforation. Long half-life or slow-release formulations were associated with a greater risk.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateMay 26, 2010

Obesity associated with increased risk of fibromyalgia

Research found an association between leisure time physical exercise and a future risk of developing fibromyalgia. Women who exercised regularly had a lower risk of developing the condition compared to inactive women. High BMI is also identified as an independent risk factor for future development of FM.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateApr 29, 2010

Antibiotic regimen effective for reactive arthritis

Researchers found a combination of antibiotics to be an effective treatment for Chlamydia-induced reactive arthritis, with significant improvements seen in patients receiving a 6-month course of combination antibiotics. The results suggest potential for eradication of the persistent infection and improvement in clinical sequelae.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis & Rheumatism·DateApr 29, 2010

Fibromyalgia symptoms improved by lifestyle adjustments

A new study published in Arthritis Research & Therapy found that lifestyle physical activity can help people with fibromyalgia improve their symptoms. Participants who engaged in short bursts of physical activity took 54% more steps per day, experienced reduced perceived functional deficits, and reported less pain compared to those in ...

SourceBMC (BioMed Central)·JournalArthritis Research & Therapy·DateMar 29, 2010

Patients say 'no thanks' to risky medical treatments

A recent study found that increasing patient responsibility for medical decisions decreases their willingness to accept risky treatments. Patients who were presented with choices reported higher worry about risks and lower uptake of treatment.

SourceWiley·JournalArthritis Care & Research·DateNov 30, 2009

NIH launches second phase of patient reported outcomes initiative

The National Institutes of Health has awarded grants to further develop and test the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS), a tool that assesses pain, fatigue, and other aspects of quality of life in a standardized manner. The second phase of PROMIS aims to strengthen assessment of patient-reported outcomes ...

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis have increased incidence of other chronic illnesses

Research found a higher incidence of chronic rhinosinusitis among patients with other chronic diseases, particularly asthma. The study suggests that some chronic diseases may share common mechanisms of how they arise or progress, highlighting the need for further investigation into the relationship between CRS and other conditions.