New Research Shows Promise for Finding A Cure for Rheumatoid...( The American College of Rheumatolog...),Health

The American College of Rheumatology Research and Education Foundation's

Within Our Reach Campaign Yields Significant Advances in Detecting,

Treating and Understanding RA

ATLANTA, Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- For the first time during its unprecedented initiative to find a cure for rheumatoid arthritis, the American College of Rheumatology Research and Education Foundation is releasing new information acquired from research funded by the Within Our Reach: Finding a Cure for Rheumatoid Arthritis campaign.

Doctors and scientists from across the nation are utilizing more than $12 million in grants awarded by the ACR REF to investigate critical issues including early detection of RA, novel treatment pathways as well as improved patient-provider interaction and patient care. While research is still underway, the REF is encouraged by the progress made thus far and is pleased to announce the new and promising knowledge which RA researchers will continue to build upon as studies continue.

"The REF is committed to funding RA research that is not being done elsewhere, and supporting scientists and doctors who are most prepared and motivated to work on finding a cure," said Dr. Leslie J. Crofford, president of the REF. "The quality and value of the studies in progress is evidence that the Within Our Reach campaign to is critical and must continue."

Viewed as one of the most disabling types of arthritis, RA affects nearly 1.3 million Americans. But, because of rapidly advancing research into the fundamentals of inflammation, the outlook for those suffering from RA has improved dramatically over the past 25 years. Recent advances in treatment have made it possible to stop, or at least slow the progression of joint damage. Additionally, new therapies that target inflammation are being developed.

Today the Within our Reach campaign is supporting 30 innovative research studies and highlights of new information gained
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