Spring 2021 News from Arthritis Society

All Eyes on Research

Throughout the many challenges of the pandemic, the Arthritis Society’s commitment to research has never wavered. In January 2021, we were delighted to announce eight new research awards: three Stars Career Development Awards and five Strategic Operating Grants.

Among the new award recipients is Dr. Mary Forhan. The University of Alberta researcher is being supported over three years for her project titled “Targeted knee osteoarthritis care for adults with severe obesity: The Prevention of Muscle Loss in Osteoarthritis – Feasibility and pilot randomized trial.” The project aims to develop personalized care for advanced knee arthritis in adults with obesity.

The University of Alberta’s Dr. Allyson Jones is also being supported over three years. Her project involves interviewing people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to understand their perspectives on managing RA and navigating the healthcare system. She will also interview family physicians and rheumatologists to identify gaps in primary care and how to address them. This research could help create a unified national description of the healthcare provided by physicians across the country.

“These researchers and these projects hold great promise for the future of arthritis diagnosis, care and prevention,” says Dr. Siân Bevan, Chief Science Officer at the Arthritis Society. “We look forward to how this important work will help us solve the unanswered challenges of arthritis.”

Visit the Arthritis Society website to learn more about these research initiatives.

Arthritis Talks webinars for people with arthritis

Managing arthritis can be challenging, but finding relevant, evidence-based information doesn’t have to be.

The Arthritis Society’s monthly Arthritis Talks webinars bring the latest guidance to people with arthritis, directly from experts, to help them flourish.

Upcoming free webinars include:

• March 30 at 4PM: Arthritis and COVID-19: Vaccines, Access and What’s New featuring Dr. Vandana Ahluwalia and Dr. Alan Low
• April – Accessing Care from Anywhere
• May – Eat Smart for Arthritis

Visit our website to learn more and register.