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Gordon M. Hughes 9:00 a.m. ET May 24, 2017

Gordon M. Hughes(Photo: Photo provided by IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital)

May 20 is World Autoimmune Arthritis Day. Many of us know someone afflicted with arthritis or suffer from it ourselves. Similarly to many diseases, early diagnosis and treatment is vital for daily living and recovery.

Arthritis is a term referring to joint pain, and there are more than 100 different forms of it. That is why the International Foundation for Autoimmune Arthritis works hard to focus its efforts on the autoimmune and associated diseases where arthritis is a major issue so that those suffering can receive the treatment they need.

What is autoimmune arthritis?

An autoimmune disease is a condition where the immune system, in response to an unknown trigger, begins producing antibodies that attack the bodys own tissue instead of infections. This decreases the bodys ability to fight invaders and makes it vulnerable to infection. In autoimmune arthritis, the immune system attacks the lining of the joints themselves in addition to other parts of the body.

How do I know if I have autoimmune arthritis?

Typically, autoimmune arthritis diseases have a set of overlapping symptoms that help in diagnosis because along with the inflammation of the tissue around the joints there tends to be inflammation and injury in other organs in the body. These symptoms frequently include debilitating fatigue, fevers, myalgia (ever-present muscle pain), brain fog and joint pain in multiple locations at the same time.

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The most common form this takes is rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA causes chronic inflammation of the joints. Usually, multiple joints are affected in a symmetrical pattern. This disease is characterized by periods of disease flares and remissions, and because it is a chronic inflammation that over time loosens the joint ligament by eroding cartilage and bone, it can often cause permanent joint destruction and deformity.

Approximately 1.3 million people in the U.S. suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, and the disease is three times more common in women than men. It can actually start at any age and even effect children, but it most often starts between 40 and 60 years of age.

What are other forms of autoimmune arthritis?

There are many autoimmune diseases involving arthritis that are most similar in onset, continued symptoms, treatment, and potential for remission to Rheumatoid Arthritis. Some of them are psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Stills disease, Sjogrens syndrome, systemic lupus, erythematosus and juvenile arthritis (all versions of the disease in children).

What are the potential complications of these conditions?

Like already noted, these are largely systemic diseases where inflammation can affect many parts of the body. Inflammation of the glands of the eyes and mouth can cause dryness of these areas. Left alone, this can cause damage to the cornea and the white parts of the eye which endanger it as a whole.

Inflammation of the lungs can cause chest pain, shortness of breath and coughing. If this is untreated, it can continue to intensify and is associated with an increased risk for heart attack. Again, because these are systemic diseases, there are complications that can be present in multiple parts of the body.

What can I do about this?

The best preliminary advice is to see your primary care provider early. Early diagnosis and specific treatment can go a long way in moving forward with these conditions. When you talk to your doctor, be specific about what the pain really feels like. Only you know how much it hurts and how it affects your life.

Gordon M. Hughes, MD, FRCP, FACR, is board certified in internal medicine/rheumatology. He began practicing in 1990, and is currently medical director of Specialty Services. For more information, visit iuhealth.org/ball-memorial, or call IU Health Ball Memorial Physicians Rheumatology at 765-289-5410.

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Ask the Expert: What is autoimmune arthritis? - Muncie Star Press

New research shows that people who eat more fiber are much less likely to develop arthritis of the knee.

In a paper published in the journal Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, scientists analyzed data from more than 6,000 Americans participating in two long-running studies. In one group, those who ate more fiber (the top 25 percent of participants in terms of fiber consumption) had a 61 percent lower chance of developing the condition, compared to those who ate the least. In the other group, the upper quartile had a 30 percent lower chance of experiencing osteoarthritis, compared to those in the bottom 25 percent.

To single out the effect of fiber, researchers controlled for age, diet and many other factors, and still saw a benefit of fiber, says Virginia Kraus, a researcher and physician at Duke University School of Medicine who wasnt involved in the study. Those who eat the most fiber tend to weigh less and to be better educated.

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Eating foods high in fiber may reduce the risk of knee arthritis, new research shows. Ohio State University

Dietary fiber has been shown to help prevent obesity and inflammation, two conditions which make the development and symptoms of arthritis worse. Obesity in particular is strongly linked with arthritis, in part because being heavier puts more strain on the knee, and wears down the cartilage therein. Researchers showthat eating more fiber changes the composition of bacteria in the gut and decreases the leakiness of the bowel so bacterial-produced toxins have less of a chance of penetrating into the systemic circulation where, if not cleared by the liverand less is cleared when liver is fatty[the toxins] can induce inflammation and pain, Kraus says.

The findings are particularly relevant as the average American doesnt consume enough fiber, eating only 15 grams per day. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2015-2020 recommend that women older than 51eat 22 grams per day and men 28 grams per day, says study first author Joy Dai, a postdoctoral fellow at Boston University School of Medicine.

Reducing your risk of developing knee arthritis is especially important given that it is not a simple problem to treat once it develops. Recent research has found, for example, that steroid injections for knee arthritis arent effective, and are no better than a placebo treatment. That work was published May 16 in JAMA.

Asked if those at risk of knee arthritis should eat more fiber, Kraus answers in the affirmative. It is heart healthy and potentially joint healthy, she says.

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Want to Avoid Knee Arthritis? Eat More Fiber - Newsweek

May 24, 2017 10:58 AM

Arthritis does not need to interfere with living an active life. The National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA), in association with Miami-Dade Parks, will offer free activity classes designed especially for arthritis patients. Learning how to manage the disease makes a big difference on your quality of life, and having access to arthritis intervention programs is crucial, said Dr. Sarah Messiah, Ph.D., M.P.H. University of Miami Research Associate Professor, Department of Pediatrics.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, arthritis affects more than 50 million children and adults in the United States. There are more than a hundred different types of arthritis with varying symptoms. Miami-Dade Parks experts know first-hand that participating in exercise programs helps increase physical strength, boosts activity levels and elevates mood. Many arthritis sufferers do not participate in regular physical activity, even though the Arthritis Foundation recommends it for a number of health benefits. The new arthritis intervention program starts May 1. It will help arthritis sufferers deal with daily pain.

These classes offer a way for folks to manage arthritis symptoms without compromising an active lifestyle, Eric Hansen, manager of Recreation Planning and Program Development for the Miami-Dade Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department said. The three programs which run six weeks each include, Aquatic Program, Arthritis Foundation and Active Living Everyday.

Walk With Ease

The Walk with Ease program teaches participants how to safely make physical activity part of their everyday life. Participants may use a workbook to guide them through the self-directed program, or they can participate in a six-week group program led by a trained leader. The information and strategies used are based on research and tested programs in exercise science, behavior change and arthritis management. The Arthritis Foundation has proven that this program increases balance, strength and walking pace, as well as reduces pain. Data is available in a report from the Thurston Arthritis Research Center and the Institute on Aging at the University of North Carolina.

Aquatic Program

Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program (AFAP) classes are conducted by trained instructors and include range of motion, stretching, breathing and light aerobic activities in the water. The six-week program typically meets two or three times per week for one hour. This program is designed for anyone with arthritis, related rheumatic diseases or musculoskeletal conditions.

Active Living Every Day

Active Living Every Day helps individuals make changes in their everyday life so that active living is possible. The behavior change program is also six weeks and teaches how to set realistic goals, avoid pitfalls and get support for becoming active.

Research has shown that positive benefits occur in patients who combine strengthening exercises,cardiovascular exercises and coordination activities. The benefits in the three exercise programs include the following:

Many of the programs offered by the Miami-Dade Parks Active Older Adults program, including Tai Chi and Enhance Fitness, are on the Center for Disease Controls list of Intervention Programs or Recommended and Promising Programs.

While current active older adult programming provides many ways for 55 and older individuals to socialize and energize, these new programs provided by NRPA deal specifically with issues relating to arthritis and will attract new participants to Miami-Dade Parks as well as benefit those already attending programs, said Allan Tavss, Active Older Adults Program Coordinator and Advocate for Miami-Dade Parks.

Adults with arthritis no longer have to suffer with pain. If you are an arthritis patient, visit http://www.miamidade.gov/parks for more information or call Allan Tavss at 305.962.8393. Registration for the program is required. For more information on the aquatic program contact A.D. Barnes pool at 305-665-1626.

Above Content Provided By Parks Foundation of Miami-Dade and Miami-Dade Parks & Recreation

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Miami-Dade Parks To Offer Free Classes To Help Arthritis Sufferers Live Actively - CBS Miami

May 24, 2017

In a pivotal phase-3 clinical trial led by a Stanford University School of Medicine investigator, patients with psoriatic arthritis for whom standard-of-care pharmaceutical treatments have provided no lasting relief experienced a significant reduction in symptoms, including joint tenderness and swelling, when they were given a new drug.

The 24-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted at 109 centers in 10 countries and involved more than 300 adults for whom available biologic drugsthe standard of care for this painful autoimmune conditionhad lost their efficacy or lacked it in the first place.

Results of the trial will be published online May 24 in The Lancet.

Left untreated or treated unsuccessfully, psoriatic arthritis can progress to induce severe joint and bone damage and functional disability, said Mark Genovese, MD, Stanford professor of immunology and rheumatology and the study's senior author.

In the trial, known as SPIRIT-P2, 314 patients received regular injections of either a biologic drug, ixekizumab, or a placebo for 24 weeks. The trial was sponsored by Eli Lilly & Co., the drug's manufacturer.

Treatment with ixekizumab resulted in more than 50 percent of the participants having at least a 20 percent reduction in the number of tender and swollen joints, significantly outperforming the placebo, said Genovese. Few serious adverse events were reported for patients receiving the drug or the placebo, he said.

The search for lasting relief

About one in 200 adults in developed countries lives with psoriatic arthritis. Like the more common rheumatoid arthritis, which affects nearly 2 percent of the population, psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory autoimmune disease whose symptomsincluding stiffness, pain and swelling of several jointstypically emerge between the ages of 30 and 50.

The two syndromes differ, though, in their constellation of symptoms. For example, psoriatic arthritis manifests most often in the lower extremities and is associated with the autoimmune skin condition called psoriasis, in which raised red, scaly patches appear on the skin. Although psoriatic rashes most often precede the onset of the arthritic stage, the reverse can also be the case.

Three of the 10 top-selling drugs in the United States in dollar salesadalimumab, etanercept and infliximabare biologics prescribed for psoriatic arthritis as well as for the more common rheumatoid arthritis. These three drugs share a common property: They block the action of a pro-inflammatory substance called tumor necrosis factor. Secreted by various immune cells, TNF stimulates the immune response and accompanying inflammation.

However, despite the availability of TNF inhibitors, "only about half of psoriatic arthritis patients who are given TNF inhibitors get better," said Genovese.

Although the ultimate cause of the disease remains unknown, there was a good clinical rationale for hoping it might be responsive to ixekizumab. For the last decade or so, Genovese said, another pro-inflammatory substance called IL-17 has been drawing the attention of immunologists focusing on psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.

Ixekizumab works by blocking IL-17. The drug, an injectable monoclonal antibody, is already commercially available for the treatment of psoriasis, for which it has been remarkably effective, said Genovese. And in an earlier Lilly-sponsored phase-3 trial, ixekizumab was shown to be effective for psoriatic arthritis patients who had not yet been treated with biological drugs such as TNF inhibitors. (Another approved monoclonal antibody that targets IL-17, secukinumab, was approved in 2016 for psoriatic arthritis.)

Less pain, swelling

Over the 24-week duration of the latest trial, 109 participants received ixekizumab every two weeks; 94 received placebo injections every two weeks; and 111 alternated every two weeks between getting injections of ixekizumab and the placebo. While 19.5 percent of patients who received only the placebo injections were judged to have met the trial's specified clinical endpointat least a 20 percent reduction in the number of tender and swollen jointsthe response rate among those getting the real drug every four weeks was 53.3 percent. Those getting the drug every two weeks didn't do any better and were slightly more prone to side effects, such as a mild reaction at the injection site.

Although any treatment that works by blocking the immune system's ability to mount an inflammatory response should be carefully monitored for its potential to render the body vulnerable to infectious disease, there were few observed differences in this category between recipients of placebo versus active drug given every four weeks, Genovese said.

Lilly has filed for approval of the drug by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Genovese has served as a consultant to Lilly.

Explore further: Ixekizumab efficacious for psoriasis over 60 weeks

(HealthDay)The benefits of ixekizumab in the treatment of psoriasis extend to 60 weeks, according to a study published online June 8 in the New England Journal of Medicine.

In a pivotal phase-3 trial led by a Stanford University School of Medicine investigator, a novel drug for rheumatoid arthritis substantially reduced symptoms and improved daily physical functioning in patients for whom other ...

A University of Manchester led trial of a new psoriasis drug has resulted in 40 percent of people showing a complete clearance of psoriatic plaques after 12 weeks of treatment and over 90 percent showing improvement.

(HealthDay)A new drug called brodalumab appears to be effective in treating patients suffering from psoriatic arthritis, a study says.

If you have psoriasis or a family history of psoriasis and you are experiencing joint pain and swelling, you could have psoriatic arthritis, a serious disease that may lead to joint destruction and disability.

(HealthDay)For patients with rheumatoid arthritis who have had an inadequate response to methotrexate, baricitinib is associated with significant clinical improvements, compared to either placebo or adalimumab, according ...

In a pivotal phase-3 clinical trial led by a Stanford University School of Medicine investigator, patients with psoriatic arthritis for whom standard-of-care pharmaceutical treatments have provided no lasting relief experienced ...

New research from the University of Liverpool, published today in the journal npj Systems Biology and Applications, has identified 'cell messages' that could help identify the early stages of osteoarthritis (OA).

Osteoarthritis can potentially be prevented with a good diet and regular exercise, a new expert review published in the Nature Reviews Rheumatology reports.

Maintaining the supply of a molecule that helps to nourish cartilage prevented osteoarthritis in animal models of the disease, according to a report published in Nature Communications online May 11.

The results of a study led by Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) investigators suggest that following a diet known to reduce the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease may also reduce the risk of gout. The team's ...

In a preclinical study in mice and human cells, researchers report that selectively removing old or 'senescent' cells from joints could stop and even reverse the progression of osteoarthritis.

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Drug for refractory psoriatic arthritis shows promise in clinical trial - Medical Xpress

New York Times

High-Fiber Diet Tied to Less Knee Arthritis New York Times As fiber intake increased, the prevalence of arthritis decreased. In the larger study, those who ate the most fiber were 30 percent less likely to have knee osteoarthritis than those who ate the least, and in the smaller study, they were 61 percent ... Eat These Foods to Fight Your Knee PainMen's Health Studies spotlight diet, supplements for knee painWSFA all 7 news articles »

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High-Fiber Diet Tied to Less Knee Arthritis - New York Times

Regeneron and Sanofi's rheumatoid arthritis drug is 15% to 30% cheaper than rival drugs from Amgen, AbbVie and Roche, an analyst said Tuesday. (Regeneron)

Regeneron (REGN) and Sanofi's (SNY) rheumatoid arthritis drug is 15% to 30% cheaper than rival drugs from Amgen (AMGN), AbbVie (ABBV) and Roche (RHHBY), an analyst said Tuesday after the duo's Kevzara grabbed Food and Drug Administration approval.

Kevzara's approval comes seven months after the FDA delayed its approval on issues with manufacturing at a French factory where the drug is filled. The approval is for patients with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis who don't respond to other anti-rheumatic drugs.

"The approval came on time and with a label that more or less matches our expectations," Leerink analyst Geoffrey Porges said in a note to clients. Kevzara can be prescribed alone or in combination with FDA-approved methotrexate. It is a self-administered injection.

Like Roche's Actemra, which belongs to the same class of drugs, Kevzara is associated with an increased risk of serious and minor infections, liver issues and injection-site reactions. But it's also at a 15% discount to Actemra at $39,000 annually.

"With discounts, (it) should offer a cost-effective treatment option for payers in this setting," Porges said. Kevzara costs 30% less than Amgen's Enbrel and AbbVie's Humira, which are widely prescribed for rheumatoid arthritis, though belong to a different drug class.

IBD'S TAKE:Regeneron could be among those leading a biotech resurgence this year, analysts say. Head to IBD's Technologypage for a deeper dive on why Amgen, Gilead Sciences (GILD) and Biogen (BIIB) aren't expected tobe at the forefront of the revitalization.

Regeneron and Sanofi expect European approval to come later this year and see Kevzara hitting the market in the U.S. within a few weeks. But Porges sees the drug as a minimal driver and forecasts $37 million in sales this year, growing to $456 million in 2021.

A number of drug classes address rheumatoid arthritis, he noted. The field is likely to become more crowded later this year when Dow componentJohnson & Johnson (JNJ) adds its drug sirukimab to the lineup and as morein a class dubbed JAK inhibitors arrivein 2018-19.

"Kevzara contributes approximately 11% of our expected sales of joint Sanofi-Regeneron products in 2018, but this falls to 5% long term as expected growth of (eczema drug) Dupixent and even (cholesterol-lowering drug) Praluent rapidly eclipse Kevzara's importance," Porges said.

The consensus forecasts Kevzara sales at $56 million this year, growing to $705 million by 2020 and hitting $1.1 billion by 2025.

On the stock market today, Regeneron stock rose 0.1% to 461.37, as Sanofi stock fell 0.2% to 49.07. Shares of rivals Amgen and AbbVie were up 0.7% and 0.6%, respectively, while Roche dipped 0.4%.

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AbbVie expects its biggest drug, Humira, to hit peak international sales in 2018 and then face erosion as cheaper biosimilars enter the market. (AbbVie)

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Regeneron, Sanofi Undercut Amgen, AbbVie In Rheumatoid Arthritis - Investor's Business Daily

NEW DELHI: Arthritis is not an affliction that plagues you in old age, as a survey in five Delhi hospitals three state-run and two private found recently. In fact, one in every four osteoarthritis patients turned out to be less than 40+ years old and often overweight.

The survey, held over the past six months in Veer Savarkar, Hedgewar, Jagpravesh, RK and Malik Medix Hospitals, had orthopaedic surgeons reporting 600 patients with knee pain. Of the, 26% were in their thirties and the rest above the age of 40. The orthopaedic surgeons disclosed that while most of the patients under 40 had mild to moderate arthritis, 25% of them complained of severe symptoms, for example difficulty walking for 10 minutes. Their x-rays revealed marked narrowing of the knee joint space, Dr Sushil Sharma, who led the research team, said.

The increased incidence of obesity, the researchers found, was the leading cause of osteoarthritis in the younger adults. "In our hospital, we found the younger patients were overweight women," Dr Arvind Kumar, one of the researchers from east Delhi's Hedgewar Hospital, told TOI. "They were from the poorer socio-economic group and had taken to alternative therapies for pain relief. Some of the medicines they used contained steroids."

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Arthritis gets younger: 1 in every 4 below 40 years - Times of India

Sgt. Jayden Cormier and five of his buddies from the Canadian Scottish Regiment made a big impression at the 2016 Victoria Walk to fight Arthritis, strapping on up to 36 kilograms apiece and doing the main five-kilometre route three times.

It was all inspired by the 28-year-old Cormiers mother, Denise, who has had arthritis since he was born. The Victoria event is part of a national effort to stage fundraising walks in support of the Arthritis Society.

Cormier said he suggested the idea of doing the walk to a regimental committee that annually picks a charity to support.

I pitched it to the committee and everyone was on board.

Ten members of his new regiment, the 5th (B.C.) Field Artillery, will be at the 2017 Victoria walk on June 4, but Cormier is preparing for deployment to eastern Europe and is not sure if he can be there.

I may or may not be back, he said from Edmonton, where he is training in advance of his posting.

Team fundraising is underway and includes gathering pledges, Cormier said. The group will once again do the 5K route three times laden with similar weight.

He said his mothers arthritis has gone through various stages over the years.

Ive grown up seeing it progress, he said. Its kind of been a bit of a roller coaster, progressively getting worse.

But theres some really great programs and treatments out there, and a recent surgery that she had that has really brought back a lot of her mobility, which has been wonderful.

Cormier said his mother is serving as this years co-ordinator for the other Island walk in Parksville.

Its kind of neat to see, he said. They were looking for someone and she stepped up.

People can relate to arthritis as a cause worthy of support, Cormier said.

For me theres definitely personal ties, and within the community, for the most part, everyone knows somebody who has been impacted by arthritis.

Cormier said he and his army friends are proud to be associated with the walk,

For us, as military members, its nice to give back but also show that not only are we representatives within our community, but we are members of it, as well.

Victoria has been part of the Arthritis Societys national walk program for the past seven years, but the city has had an arthritis walk since 1992.

About 250 people took part in the citys 1016 walk, and Victoria spokeswoman Emma Kirkland is hoping to see about 300 this year. The walk will once again start near the Selkirk Trestle in Selkirk Green Park and provide the option of a one- or five-kilometre route.

Participants will begin by walking across the trestle.

Kirkland said arthritis affects 4.6 million Canadians or one in seven. There are 100 different types of arthritis, she said, ranging from osteoarthritis and gout to fibromyalgia.

Register for either the Victoria or Parksville walk at walktofightarthritis.ca, or in Victoria call Kirkland at 250-519-4002.

Both walks have event-day registration at 8:30 a.m. and start at 10 a.m.

The Parksville walk is centred at Parksville Community Park.

jwbell@timescolonist.com

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Team carries heavy burden in arthritis walk - Times Colonist

Sanofi Genzyme's Kendall Square site.

Federal regulators Monday OKd a drug made by Cambridge-based Sanofi Genzyme to treat rheumatoid arthritis, a painful condition that affects millions of people worldwide, including more than 1.3 million in the United States.

The regulatory sign-off on Kevzara, co-developed with Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc. of Tarrytown, NY, marked the second major US drug approval this year for Sanofi Genzyme, the specialty care arm of French drug giant Sanofi SA. In late March, the Food and Drug Administration gave a green light to the companys medicine to treat severe forms of eczema.

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The FDA approved Kevzara for adult patients with moderately to severely active rheumatoid arthritis who have not responded adequately to other treatments. Doctors can prescribe Kevzara as a sole treatment or in combination with other medicines. The drugs label will include a safety notice that it can cause side effects, including serious infections, in some patients.

We have very high hopes for Kevzara, said Jonathan Sadeh, a Sanofi vice president and clinical research lead for the drug program. It fills an important unmet need. In tests of the experimental drug on rheumatoid arthritis patients, he said, weve shown a clinically meaningful impact on symptoms and on slowing down the progression of the disease.

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Mondays approval came seven months after the FDA delayed a decision on the rheumatoid arthritis treatment, citing deficiencies found during inspection of a Sanofi manufacturing site in Normandy, France. The problems have since been addressed.

The drug was approved by Canadian regulators in January, and Sanofi Genzyme and Regeneron which will split the revenues are awaiting decisions in Europe and Japan by the end of the year.

Unlike the eczema drug Dupixent, which biopharma analysts have pegged as a blockbuster product with peak sales topping $1 billion a year, Kevzara will enter a market crowded with existing medicines that work in different ways. The top-selling rheumatoid arthritis treatment is Humira, sold by North Chicago, Ill., biopharma AbbVie Inc.

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But the global rheumatoid arthritis market has been estimated at $20 billion, and its been growing at about 2 percent a year. That means Kevzara could generate significant revenue if it can make inroads into the market.

In more than a half dozen late-stage clinical trials, Kevzara outperformed Humira in improving the condition of patients who didnt respond well to a common first-line treatment called methotrexate. Its important to give clinicians more options in treating this disease, Sadeh said. If you have an inadequate response to one mechanism, its better to go to another mechanism.

Kevzara is a type of biologic drug known as a monoclonal antibody. It works by blocking the activation of cell receptors that cause inflammation of joints throughout the body. Sadeh said the same type of action could potentially treat many other diseases.

Scientists at Sanofi Genzyme and Regeneron, who are collaborating in a broad drug development alliance, are actively reviewing other indications, Sadeh said.

In addition to Kevzara, the collaboration already has yielded two other approved drugs. One is Dupixent; the other is Praulent, which treats hypercholesterolemia, a condition that affects people with extremely high levels of cholesterol.

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FDA approves Sanofi Genzyme rheumatoid arthritis drug - The Boston Globe

BY RYAN STEWART For The Oklahoman Published: May 23, 2017 5:00 AM CDT Updated: May 23, 2017 5:00 AM CDT

Phlebotomist Lisa Fulks prepares to draw blood from a donor on the Oklahoma Blood Institute mobile blood drive unit parked on Robinson in downtown Oklahoma Cityin 2015. [Photo by Doug Hoke, The Oklahoman Archives]

The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation and the Oklahoma Blood Institute have joined forces to combat rheumatoid arthritis.

The institutes will utilize OBI's new software system, Bio-Linked, to match willing blood donors with researchers at OMRF to build a volunteer group for StopRA, an innovative U.S.-based prevention trial for rheumatoid arthritis, which is funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, part of the National Institutes of Health, through its Autoimmunity Centers of Excellence program.

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is a chronic illness characterized by inflammation of the lining of the joints. The symptoms include pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints, and ultimately the disease can result in loss of function and disability. While little is known about how RA develops, studies show some people at risk for the disease can be identified through testing for an autoantibody called anti-CCP.'

We know that individuals with this protein in their blood are at a higher risk, said Dr. Judith James, StopRA investigator and OMRF's vice president of clinical affairs and chair of the foundation's Arthritis and Clinical Immunology Research Program. But we didn't know how we could screen a large number of healthy individuals to see if they're walking around with this risk factor to address the disease before it develops. That led to this beautiful partnership with OBI.

OBI's Bio-Linked initiative has made this early screening possible. Unveiled in late 2016, Bio-Linked is a unique software system in which OBI's generous blood donors are matched with medical research projects like StopRA.

This was created because we know there is a great need for people who are willing to participate in research, said Charles Mooney, OBI vice president of quality management and new business ventures. Our blood donors are the perfect people to recruit to do research because they are responsive, they care and they are willing to step up to do what needs to be done.

How it works

This partnership allows blood donors to sign up to have some of their extra serum submitted as blinded or de-identified samples to be tested for specific antibodies associated with RA. If they test positive for the CCP antibody, OMRF will contact OBI, who will reach out to the donors with more information about the study.

In the first 6 weeks of the new arrangement between OBI and OMRF, more than 3,000 people agreed to have their blood tested for the anti-CCP antibody. Out of that group, about 40 people had the risk factor and were contacted by OBI. Nearly all of them subsequently contacted OMRF to inquire about the trial.

James said the goal of the trial is to assess whether early treatment can prevent these individuals from ever becoming RA patients.

Coming off the promising initial response, OMRF and OBI are working to secure funding for another round of screening.

It is enormously rewarding for the Oklahoma Blood Institute to partner with Dr. James and OMRF in their valuable rheumatoid arthritis research, said Dr. John Armitage, OBI president and CEO.

Our donors have always been amazingly generous in giving blood to care for patients, but through this study, they are helping find ways to prevent disease symptoms from ever appearing in people with risk factors. This is a perfect public health collaboration whereby our healthy and willing volunteers are matched with brilliant scientists looking for people to help them unlock new medical treatments.

If you are interested in participating in StopRA or would like more information, please call 271-7221 or email Virginia-roberts@omrf.org. For more information on OBI's Bio-Linked initiative, go to Bio-Linked.org.

Preventing this disease from taking off would be life-changing not only for the individuals, but also their friends and families, said Dr. Stephen Prescott, OMRF president. This powerful partnership positions us to do something about it.

Ryan Stewart is media relations coordinator for Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation.

Continued here:
OMRF, OBI partner to fight rheumatoid arthritis - NewsOK.com

Prevention.com

This Is What Rheumatoid Arthritis Actually Feels Like Prevention.com Most people think arthritis only affects those hovering around retirement age. But rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory disorder, can actually strike those in their 20s or 30s. And unlike some other rheumatic diseases, the side effects of the ...

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This Is What Rheumatoid Arthritis Actually Feels Like - Prevention.com

INVER GROVE HEIGHTS, Minn. (KMSP) - A new nationwide stem cell study is hoping to give dogs with arthritis a better life. Minnesota is one of about a dozen states involved in this ground breaking clinical trial.

Fourteen-year-old Max has arthritis and his owner, Lynsey Rossi says, "When he walks sometimes he can't keep balance and he doesn't have the stability." Rossi is excited Max was selected to participate in this new double blind stem cell study, even though she doesn't know if Max was injected with the placebo or the stem cells.

Dr. Ann Valenti at the Inver Grove Heights Animal Hospital is tracking dozens of dogs' progress.

"They're taking the stem cells from the umbilical cords of puppies that would typically be waste material and they're purifying it and making it into a product that has a very rich stem cell component to it," Valentisaid.

The hope is the stem cells will produce more cartilage and joint fluid.

Max gets a lameness test every few months for up to six months to test his ability to walk and jog.

The good news for all dogs in this cutting edge trial, in the end, every single one will get injected with stemcells.

If you'd like to know if your dog could participate there are several qualifications, such as the dog has to be older than a year. Also it has to be in general good health besides arthritis.

Owners have to keep a diary about their dog plus they receive $400 in compensation for participating.

You can find out if your dog would qualify and learn more by going to dogstemcellstudy.com

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Study aims to give dogs with arthritis greater comfort in old age - KMSP-TV

Steroid injections don't do a lot to help relieve the pain of arthritis in the knees, a new study has found, suggesting the common treatment may be not be helpful.

The study found that giving patients cortisone injections every three months was no better than giving them a placebo injection for alleviating their knee pain in patients from osteoarthritis.

In fact, the researchers found that the steroid injections actually contributed to a loss in bone cartilage over two years.

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting more than three million Canadians. The condition is marked by the breakdown in joints of cartilage, which is the tough elastic material that protects the ends of bones.

When the underlying bones begin to rub together, it results in pain and stiffness. It can also lead to synovitis, which is an inflammation of the membrane that lines the joints.

There is no cure for the condition, but doctors sometimes inject corticosteroids directly into the knee joint in a bid to quickly reduce some of the inflammation.

Some doctors are reticent to offer the treatment since it's known that repeated injections can actually contribute to the breakdown of cartilage in the knee.

For the study, a team led by Dr. Timothy E. McAlindon, of Tufts Medical Center in Boston randomly assigned 140 patients with knee osteoarthritis and synovitis to injections of either a corticosteroid called triamcinolone, or a simple saline solution, every 12 weeks for two years.

Id hoped that we might see some benefit from the triamcinolone because it supresses inflammation and we know there is inflammation in the knee joints, McAlindon said.

The researchers found that those receiving the injections of triamcinolone saw significantly greater cartilage volume loss than the saline group saw.

And though both groups experienced some relief from pain, there wasn't a significant difference between the two groups. Physical function remained about the same in both groups as well.

"The results of this study do not support the use of long-term, repeated corticosteroid injections for the management of pain or structural progression in osteoarthritis, and in fact indicate that there may be more cartilage loss in people who receive steroids," McAlindon said.

The study appears in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Dr. Bheeshma Ravi, an orthopaedic surgeon at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto, says the study confirms what a lot of surgeons have known for some time.

This study will really help doctors and patients understand these injections -- especially steroid injections -- dont really have much of an impact on patient pain and should not really be part of the care, he told CTV News.

Ravi believes that many steroid injections are "patient-driven," meaning it's patients who are requesting them because they have exhausted other pain management options but are leery of having joint replacement surgery.

"A lot of doctors use these injections in lieu of counselling patients that they may benefit from surgery," Ravi said

But the injections rarely work to relieve pain and only serve to delay joint replacement surgery, which has been shown to relieve pain and increase mobility.

"Sometimes people delay surgery for too long -- and sometimes they do that by using these injections and various other injections offered -- they may get to a stage where their function is so low, that the surgery can't really make much of a difference (to their ability to function)."

With a report by CTV News medical specialist Avis Favaro and producer Elizabeth St. Philip

Read more:
Study questions steroid injections for knee arthritis - CTV News

When a joint develops osteoarthritis, some of the cartilage covering the ends of the bones gradually roughens and becomes thin, and the bone underneath thickens.

According to Arthritis Research UK, over eight million people in the UK suffer from osteoarthritis - a condition perceived as only a disorder that affects the elderly.

However, now experts have revealed body fat can help treat bone joint conditions, including osteoarthritis.

A new device gently suctions, processes and uses a patient's own fat tissue to provide a potential source of stem cells and growth factors to promote healing.

Experts said it could help people who cant easily move their joints.

GETTY

Fat has long been used for support of tissue repair and replacement

Orthopedic physicians at a US medial centre are the first sports medicine specialists in the area to offer treatment with the device, called Lipogems, used at the time of arthroscopic surgery.

The FDA - the food and drug administration in the US approved Lipogems for use in November 2016.

"The technology is ideal for patients with certain orthopedic conditions, such as painful joints - including the knee, ankle or shoulder - with limited range of motion, said Dr Brian Cole, professor of orthopedic surgery and section head of the Rush Cartilage Restoration Center at Rush University Medical Centre.

Additionally, it can be used in soft tissue defects located in tendons, ligaments, and/or muscles to improve the biologic environment," he said.

"Fat has long been used for support of tissue repair and replacement.

"Fat has the ability to be a source of important cells which produce important proteins involved with healing and reduction in inflammation."

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During the process, fat cells are taken from the abdomen or thigh while the patient is sedated with a local anaesthetic.

The Lipogem procedure rinses and cleans inflammatory oils and blood from the harvested fat and keeps the beneficial properties of the fat tissue, which is injected into the injured site.

The entire procedure from harvesting to the injection is completed in less than 30 minutes.

The fat tissue tends to remain in the area where it is injected instead of being immediately reabsorbed by the body, allowing the body to maximise the benefits of the injection for an extended period of time.

GETTY

Following injection, the tissue promotes healing and symptom reduction as early as three weeks after treatment.

The treatment can be used when standard options - such as steroid injections or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs dont provide enough relief.

It offers benefits for people who are unable to get surgery, would like an alternative to surgery, or it can be used in conjunction with their surgery, Dr Cole said.

We are excited to be offering this alternative to our patients and are conducting ongoing basic science and clinical research trials on patients with knee arthritis and other conditions to investigate the role of stem cells and growth factors that are present in the small blood vessels in fat.

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Arthritis cure on horizon - THIS unusual treatment can ease symptoms - Express.co.uk

Ablynx said today it will receive a 15 million ($16.9 million) milestone payment from Merck KGaA after the pharma giant approved its preclinical package for ALX-1141, setting the stage for advancing the osteoarthritis candidate into clinical studies.

Merck KGaA will oversee clinical development of ALX-1141, Ablynx said.

ALX-1141 is the first candidate to be developed through a 6-year-old collaboration between the companies. Ablynx and Merck KGaA agreed in 2011 to develop candidates against two Merck-selected osteoarthritis targets, with Merck at the time agreeing to pay Ablynx 20 million ($22.5 million) upfront.

Ablynx is eligible for approximately 120 million ($135 million) in development, regulatory, and commercial milestones, plus tiered royalties into double digits, upon successful development and approval of ALX-1141.

ALX-1141 and the second osteoarthritis candidate are being developed using Ablynxs platform based on single-domain antibody fragments, or Nanobodies, that contain the unique structural and functional properties of naturally occurring heavy-chain-only antibodies. According to Ablynx, the platform is designed to allow for rapid generation and large-scale production of novel biological therapeutics that have potential in a wide range of human diseases.

Obtaining preclinical proof-of-concept was an important milestone in this collaboration, Ablynx CEO Edwin Moses, Ph.D., said in a statement. With no disease-modifying drugs currently approved for osteoarthritis, there is a huge unmet need for new treatments. This Nanobody has the potential to become a first-in-class treatment option for patients suffering from this degenerative joint disease.

Dr. Moses added that ALX-1141 is the second Nanobody expected to enter clinical development from any of four collaborations between Ablynx and Merck KGaA. The other is a bispecific anti-interleukin (IL)-17A/F (M1095) Nanobodydesigned to neutralize the proinflammatory cytokines IL-17A and IL-17Fwhich showed positive results as a psoriasis treatment in a Phase Ib study, the companies said in January.

In February, Ablynx included among its significant clinical and regulatory catalysts anticipated for 2017 the potential advancement to the clinic of another Nanobodya cancer candidate co-developed with Merck & Co. under a 5.78 billion ($6.5 billion) immuno-oncology collaboration launched in 2014 and expanded the following year.

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Ablynx Wins 15M from Merck KGaA as Arthritis Candidate Nears Clinic - Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News

The global market for rheumatoid-arthritis drugs is expected to top $19 billion by 2020. Three of the 10 best-selling drugs in the world are arthritis medications. Pharmaceutical companies that market arthritis medications are making a lot of money -- and, as a result, some rank among the top dividend stocks around.

AbbVie (NYSE:ABBV), Pfizer (NYSE:PFE), and Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) appear to be the best dividend stocks among arthritis drugmakers. Here's why.

Image source: Getty Images.

AbbVie's Humira is the world's best-selling rheumatoid-arthritis drug and best-selling prescription drug overall, raking in $16 billion in sales last year. Thanks in large part to the success of Humira, AbbVie's dividend currently yields 3.84%, one of the highest among biopharmaceutical companies.

What's even better is that AbbVie has raised its dividend 60% since being spun off from parent Abbott Labs in 2013. The company appears to be in excellent position to continue dividend increases in the future, with a dividend payout ratio of less than 61% and growing earnings.

AbbVie depends on Humira for 63% of its total revenue, but the biotech has another rising star in cancer drug Imbruvica. In addition, AbbVie's pipeline includes several potential blockbusters, with cancer drug Rova-T and autoimmune-disease drugs ABT-494 and risankizumab at the top of the list.

Some might worry about threats from biosimilars to Humira. Amgen (NASDAQ:AMGN) won U.S. regulatory approval for its Humira biosimilar last year. However, AbbVie thinks it will be able to fend off U.S. rivals through 2022 by defending its array of patents for Humira.

Pfizer markets Enbrel along with partner Amgen. The drug ranked as the No. 2 rheumatoid arthritis drug in sales and the No. 3 prescription drug overall. Pfizer's portion of revenue generated by Enbrel in 2016 totaled $2.9 billion. (Amgen made nearly $6 billion from the drug.)

Enbrel was one of four megablockbuster drugs in Pfizer's product lineup last year. These big moneymakers helped Pfizer pay out a very attractive dividend, which currently yields 3.88%.

Although Pfizer's growth has been sluggish in recent years, the company should be in good shape for better performance in the future. Pfizer could become one of the biggest success stories in the cancer drug market, with soaring sales for Ibrance, the addition of Xtandi with its acquisition of Medivation last year, and a promising new drug, Bavencio.

Pfizer also should generate nice growth outside the oncology arena. Atopic dermatitis drug Eucrisa could reach peak annual sales of around $2 billion. Sales are also growing strongly for anticoagulant Eliquis, which Pfizer co-markets with Bristol-Myers Squibb.

Johnson & Johnson's Remicade stood as the world's third highest-selling arthritis drug last year. It also held the spot as the No. 5 prescription drug in overall sales. However, the position for Remicade could be in jeopardy in the near future as Pfizer cranks up its efforts in marketing its biosimilar, Inflectra.

J&J's dividend yield currently stands at 2.65%. That's lower than a few arthritis-drug stocks that aren't on this list, notably including both Amgen and Bristol-Myers Squibb (which markets Orencia). So why did J&J leapfrog these other stocks?

It comes down to history. Johnson & Johnson boasts one of the most stellar track records of any dividend stock. The company has increased its dividend for 54 consecutive years. That track record gives J&J a distinct advantage in attracting dividend-seeking investors.

The company's reliable cash flow should allow Johnson & Johnson to keep its streak of dividend increases going for a long time to come. J&J also has what I consider to be among the strongest pipelines of any major drugmaker. The company has 30 late-stage clinical programs and will add even more once its acquisition of Actelion closes.

Keith Speights owns shares of AbbVie and Pfizer. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Johnson & Johnson. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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The 3 Best Dividend Stocks in Arthritis Medication -- The Motley Fool - Motley Fool

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) Communities in the Richmond area rallied together Saturday for the 2017 Walk to Cure Arthritis.

That was held at VCUs Neuroscience Orthopedic and Wellness Center.

Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the United States today.

Saturdays walk raised money to find a cure for the condition.

We want everyone to know that arthritis is not just an old persons disease, Laura Boon, the Executive Director of the Arthritis Foundation said. It affects children of all ages, adults of all ages and it can be debilitating for some people. Its unacceptable. Its not a normal part of the aging process and we want to raise awareness so people know that.

To find out more and to fight and walk to cure arthritis, check out the Arthritis Foundations website.

Donations will be accepted through August 31.

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Communities rally together for the 2017 Walk to Cure Arthritis - WRIC

Photo: Courtesy Of Laurie Gaboardi

Bryce Lewis of New Milford was proud to be this years youth honoree of the 2017 Danbury Walk to Cure Arthritis.

Bryce Lewis of New Milford was proud to be this years youth honoree of the 2017 Danbury Walk to Cure Arthritis.

Lewis raises funds for Arthritis Walk

Spirits were high at the April 30 Danbury Walk to Cure Arthritis.

Numerous residents of the greater New Milford area attended the event, which featured New Milford youth Bryce Lewis as the walks youth honoree.

Bryce, 11, was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis at age 5 at Connecticut Childrens Medical Center, after waking one morning and not being able to move.

Bryces team, Bryces Battle Droids named after one of his favorite movies, Star Wars raised just over $4,000.

The national walked raised $5,896,059.

The local walk included a three-mile and one-mile course, activities for the entire family and stories shared by local honorees.

In addition to raising funds for the walk, Bryce raised funds by presenting a screening of Star Wars last month, and donated books about juvenile arthritis to the library and local elementary schools.

Joining Bryce as an honoree were adult honoree Barbara Duffin, of New Fairfield, who has lived with rheumatoid arthritis for over 10 years, and medical honoree Dr. Richard Roseff, of Danbury, a rheumatologist.

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Lewis raises funds for Arthritis Walk - The Greater New Milford Spectrum

By: Khushboo Thadani

Adding some items in your diet and reducing your intake of others will reduce inflammation and soothe joint pain

Often referred to as a single disease, arthritis is actually an umbrella term for more than 100 medical conditions. These conditions affect the musculoskeletal system, specifically joints where two or more bones meet. The three most common forms include osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis.

Although it affects people of all ages, women and the elderly are most at risk. While regular physical activity, using assistive devices and hot/cold therapies are necessary, maintaining an anti-inflammatory diet will help manage the pain.

Add these to your diet:

Cruciferous vegetables: Vegetables such as broccoli, kale, cauliflower and cabbage contain the compound sulforaphane, which is known to block inflammation and damage to cartilage. These foods are also extremely alkalising and maintain the pH level of the blood. Over time, this will minimise the onset of inflammation. Broccoli and leafy greens also contain calcium, a mineral which helps maintain bone health and strength.

Nuts and seeds: These are a good source of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, protein and antioxidants. Certain nuts are rich in magnesium, I-arginine and Vitamin E which keep inflammation in check. Walnuts and flaxseeds are particularly beneficial for arthritis sufferers.

Oily fish: Fish like salmon, tuna, sardines and mackerel have anti-inflammatory properties. They contain the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both of which are absent in nuts and seeds. A source of lean protein, fish helps support cartilage and the repair of muscle tissue.

Red and purple fruits: Fruits like cherries, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries and raspberries contain anthocyanins. These powerful flavonoids help inhibit the production of certain inflammatory chemicals. These compounds also contribute to the health of connective tissue and defuse the attack from free radicals.

Turmeric: This spice contains the active chemical curcumin, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. To enhance the absorption of turmeric in the body, pair it with black pepper.

Pulses: Iron is important in preventing anaemia and many arthritis patients are anaemic. Along with leafy greens and red meat, pulses like lentils and chickpeas contain a significant amount of iron. The body absorbs iron better when consumed with Vitamin C so pair it with citrus fruits, broccoli etc.

Avoid these:

Red meat: The fat in red meat is highly acidic and readily metabolised into inflammatory chemicals that cause swelling and painful inflammation in the joints. The saturated fat in animal protein also damages cartilage and joints.

Sugar and refined carbohydrates: Blood sugar levels surge after consumption of such foods, prompting the body to produce pro-inflammatory chemicals called cytokines.

Junk food: The sodium in such foods promotes water retention. Swollen veins put pressure on inflamed joints, aggravating the pain of sufferers.

Dairy: Although a good source of protein, dairy products are extremely inflammatory. Instead, opt for plant-based sources of protein such as beans, legumes and whole soybean products (like edamame and tofu, for example).

The writer is a Mumbaibased nutritionist and dietician

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FOODS THAT FIGHT ARTHRITIS - Pune Mirror - Pune Mirror

By Khushboo Thadani

Adding some items in your diet and reducing your intake of others will reduce inflammation and soothe joint pain.

Often referred to as a single disease, arthritis is actually an umbrella term for more than 100 medical conditions. These conditions affect the musculoskeletal system, specifically joints where two or more bones meet. The three most common forms include osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis. Although it affects people of all ages, women and the elderly are most at risk. While regular physical activity, using assistive devices and hot/cold therapies are necessary, maintaining an anti-inflammatory diet will help manage the pain.

Add these to your diet:

Cruciferous vegetables: Vegetables such as broccoli, kale, cauliflower and cabbage contain the compound sulforaphane, which is known to block inflammation and damage to cartilage. These foods are also extremely alkalising and maintain the pH level of the blood. Over time, this will minimise the onset of inflammation. Broccoli and leafy greens also contain calcium, a mineral which helps maintain bone health and strength.

Nuts and seeds: These are a good source of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, protein and antioxidants. Certain nuts are rich in magnesium, I-arginine and Vitamin E which keep inflammation in check. Walnuts and flaxseeds are particularly beneficial for arthritis sufferers.

Red and purple fruits: Fruits like cherries, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries and raspberries contain anthocyanins. These powerful flavonoids help inhibit the production of certain inflammatory chemicals. These compounds also contribute to the health of connective tissue and defuse the attack from free radicals.

Oily fish: Fish like salmon, tuna, sardines and mackerel have antiinflammatory properties. They contain the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both of which are absent in nuts and seeds. A source of lean protein, fish helps support cartilage and the repair of muscle tissue.

Turmeric: This spice contains the active chemical curcumin, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties. To enhance the absorption of turmeric in the body, pair it with black pepper.

Pulses: Iron is important in preventing anaemia and many arthritis patients are anaemic. Along with leafy greens and red meat, pulses like lentils and chickpeas contain a significant amount of iron. The body absorbs iron better when consumed with Vitamin C so pair it with citrus fruits, broccoli etc.

Avoid these:

Red meat: The fat in red meat is highly acidic and readily metabolised into inflammatory chemicals that cause swelling and painful inflammation in the joints. The saturated fat in animal protein also damages cartilage and joints.

Sugar and refined carbohydrates: Blood sugar levels surge after consumption of such foods, prompting the body to produce pro-inflammatory chemicals called cytokines.

Junk food: The sodium in such foods promotes water retention. Swollen veins put pressure on inflamed joints, aggravating the pain of sufferers.

Dairy: Although a good source of protein, dairy products are extremely inflammatory. Instead, opt for plant-based sources of protein such as beans, legumes and whole soybean products (like edamame and tofu, for example).

The writer is a city-based nutritionist and dietician

More here:
Foods that fight arthritis - Mumbai Mirror