ACure4RheumatoidArthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a progressive, degenerative autoimmune disease that affects 1.3 million Americans, mostly women. Arthritis is a misnomer - it is only one of many symptoms. Inflammation of the lining of the joints, as well as other organs, are characteristic. RA causes pain, fatigue, and permanent damage to joints and organs. RA typically shortens the life span of patients by 15-20% from the date of onset. Though RA typically strikes in one's 30's or 40's, RA can appear at any time. Some JRA (Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis) patients will see their disease worsen and continue into adulthood. Cardiovascular disease and infection are leading causes of death from RA. <p> We need a CURE! Treating symptoms for decades using dangerous, expensive drugs is simply unacceptable.