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Study: More targeted early RA interventions needed
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For patients, returning to a normal life is the most important outcome in early rheumatoid arthritis.
In this longitudinal, qualitative study, researchers individually interviewed 26 patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) 4 months to 6 months after the start of their first treatment. Fourteen patients participated in one of three focus groups that occurred at least 1 year after the beginning of treatment. This study was part of the Care for early RA (CareRA) trial, a prospective, 2-year, multicenter, randomized controlled trial.
In both interviews, the patients’ desired outcome of returning to normal was related to four critical areas: disease control aspects; physical aspects; participation aspects; and mental aspects. During the first interview, the patients were more focused on pain relief, medication side effects and burden, and emotional well-being, the authors wrote. With time, the patients’ view of normal changed, becoming more realistic; however, pain relief remained a primary desired outcome.
These results underscore the need for more targeted and holistic therapeutic interventions in early RA, the authors wrote. More research is needed to determine whether patient-preferred outcomes should be considered in early RA management. – by Colleen Owens
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.
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