ACR Journals On Air

Dr. Shivani Garg, a researcher dedicated to social determinants of health, discusses the profound impact these factors have on patients with Lupus Nephritis. She reveals how adverse social conditions can significantly worsen health outcomes, creating a multiplicative effect on patient experiences. The conversation highlights challenges faced by young lupus patients, especially among Latinx women, and emphasizes the need for holistic approaches in healthcare. Dr. Garg also shares her journey into rheumatology and the importance of mentorship in medicine.

Dr. Paul Emery, a renowned expert in rheumatology and early intervention for rheumatoid arthritis, discusses the complex process of tapering biologic therapies. He shares insights from his latest study on predicting flares, emphasizing the importance of individualizing treatment based on patient characteristics. The conversation highlights the evolution of remission strategies, patient-centric approaches, and the necessity of biomarker testing. Emery also touches on the role of mentorship in advancing rheumatology practices, showcasing the human side of patient care.

Dr. Yu Zuo, a researcher at the University of Michigan, delves into the intriguing role of calprotectin in antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). He discusses how calprotectin could serve as a functional biomarker for APS thrombocytopenia, emphasizing its implications for patient outcomes. The conversation highlights the challenges in detecting this autoimmune disorder and the urgent need for better biomarkers. Zuo also reflects on his journey in medicine, influenced by pivotal mentorship, and addresses how COVID-19 reshaped research priorities in this field.

Dr. Karen Costenbader, a leading researcher in autoimmune disease prevention, shares insights from her groundbreaking study on Vitamin D and marine n-3 fatty acids. She discusses the significant findings that suggest these nutrients could help prevent autoimmune conditions. The conversation also highlights the burden of these diseases, particularly on women, and examines the complexities of clinical trials. Additionally, Costenbader emphasizes the importance of mentorship in research and the value of effective communication in science.

Dr. Alyssa Howren discusses the correlation between mental health conditions and inflammatory arthritis, focusing on a study titled 'What Came First?'. The podcast explores the impact of healthcare encounters on depression and anxiety before and after an arthritis diagnosis. It also delves into the utilization of population data for health services research and the analysis of mental health care in inflammatory arthritis patients.

Dr. Gregory McDermott discusses the factors contributing to diagnostic delays in axial spondyloarthritis and the impact on treatment outcomes. The study examines delays in diagnosis, social vulnerability index, and challenges in improving diagnostic timelines despite evolving guidelines. The podcast also explores how a background in history shapes a junior physician-scientist's approach to medical research and future research topics in Axiospondyloarthritis.

Researchers discuss a study on self-management interventions for systemic sclerosis patients to improve fatigue. Topics include resilience-building energy management program, peer mentorship, coaching training, participant randomization, remote recruitment, outcomes of peer health coaching, and plans for program expansion.

Exploring the efficiency impact of mobile apps for rheumatoid arthritis care, featuring insights from Dr. Solomon. Empowering patients with Room App for symptom tracking. Study design, outcomes, and challenges of integrating mobile health app in rheumatologic care. Publication challenges and insights on becoming an editor in chief. Innovative initiatives in rheumatology journals to enhance reader engagement.

Dr. Katie Bechman discusses protecting against Uveitis in AxSpA patients through her research findings. Topics include systematic review on treatment options, managing Uveitis, navigating manuscript writing during the pandemic, and career aspirations in rheumatology.

Dr. Mary Crow, MD, co-author of an article on interferon research, discusses its history, impact on autoimmune diseases like lupus, connections to the AIDS epidemic, and potential therapeutic applications. She also highlights exceptional patient care and research focus at the Hospital for Special Surgery, reflecting on leadership in rheumatology and the importance of embracing failures in research.