Rheumatoid arthritis is the second most common form of arthritis in the UK and the most common form of inflammatory arthritis. It is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the joints, resulting in painful swollen joints that become damaged after repeated flare-ups. People with inflammatory arthritis can also develop problems with other tissues and organs in their body.
Intensive research over the past decades has increased our understanding of inflammatory arthritis and has led to the development of novel treatment options that have benefited many patients who suffer from this condition. However, we do not yet have a cure and many patients continue to experience symptoms of the disease.
Further research is needed to fully understand the causes of the disease and develop novel ways to treat or even cure this condition.