arc Epidemiology Unit
The arc Epidemiology Unit consists of four divisions and includes both laboratory and field-based research.
- Inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions
Case control studies, longitudinal observational studies and intervention studies investigating inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Investigating the co-morbidities associated with inflammatory musculoskeletal disorders and their impact on quality of life and mortality. -
Non-inflammatory musculoskeletal conditions
Investigating the evolution from acute to chronic musculoskeletal pain. Studies of bone health from childhood to very old age. Intervention studies to improve frailty, reduce pain and enhance quality of life. -
Genetics and genomics
Investigating the genes that confer increased susceptibility to musculoskeletal conditions, or that influence outcome or response to treatment. - Statistics and information services
Providing statistical and database support to the other divisions. Complying with national regulations on research governance and data protection.
Research is diverse and multi-disciplinary addressing genetic and environmental risk factors for the development and outcome of musculoskeletal conditions. We also co-ordinate a number of national clinical trials and host the national registers that are investigating the long-term safety of the new biologic drugs in patients with rheumatic diseases.
The unit conducts research in community, primary and secondary care settings and adds to the published evidence on the best treatment for musculoskeletal disorders.
The translation of identified risk factors for the development of disease or of a poor outcome of disease into evidence-based strategies for disease prevention or improvement is the major aim. Investigation of the existence and impact of co-morbidities is also a major theme.
Research is funded by the Arthritis Research Campaign, the NHS, the European Union, the British Society for Rheumatology, Medical Research Council, Wellcome Trust, Lupus UK and the British Heart Foundation.
