Paving the Way to Prevent RA: Researchers Target a Hidden Preclinical Window
Rheumatoid arthritis has no cure, but researchers are identifying a preclinical window years before joint swelling to predict who will develop RA using autoantibodies (RF and anti-CCP) and clues from mucosal sites, and they’re testing preventive treatments in trials with immune drugs to delay or prevent the disease—though no approved prevention exists yet. Key challenges include accurately predicting progression and recruiting suitable participants.