The University of Otago is enhancing its support of arthritis research by establishing a cross-campus body of clinical and academic staff, to improve understanding and treatment of the rheumatic disease that affects more than half a million New Zealanders.
Dubbed the Arthritis Research Theme, the body of researchers from the university's Dunedin, Christchurch and Wellington campuses will hold its inaugural meeting in Dunedin tomorrow.
The research initiative formalises existing staff collaborations and seeks to create new ones between those from a wide range of health disciplines.
It comprises 23 members, nine of whom form a steering committee.
The theme aims to build on Otago's internationally recognised research strengths by encouraging laboratory and clinical studies into the different forms of arthritis, increasing the profile of arthritis healthcare and research in New Zealand.
Ultimately, its goal is to improve outcomes for New Zealanders living with painful and crippling conditions.
Associate Prof Lisa Stamp, a consultant rheumatologist and prominent researcher in the field, has been appointed director of the research group.
She says it involves a "benchtop to bedside" approach in which researchers can interact closely with clinicians treating patients, leading to innovative research ideas.
"The key challenges we are tackling include how to better identify people at risk of developing rheumatic diseases, understanding which patients are likely to have more severe disease and future disability, and how to tailor treatments to achieve the best outcomes for individuals," she said.
Researchers will focus on diseases including gout and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as less common conditions, such as ankylosing spondylitis and scleroderma.
Associate members of the newly formed body include Arthritis New Zealand and Parliamentary Friends for Arthritis organiser Michael Woodhouse.
