test
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where inflammation (pain, heat and swelling) affects the lining of the joints and sometimes other organs of the body.
What is rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?
In rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the immune system attacks normal tissues as if they were invading pathogens, causing
inflammation. The hands, feet and knees are most commonly affected, resulting in restricted movement, stiffness and pain.
Read about rheumatoid arthritis
Key Statistics
2%
2% of the Australian population are affected by RA- ~407,900
35-65
Onset of RA usually occurs between the ages of 35-65
50-60%
Genetic factors are estimated to contribute 50-60% of the risk of developing RA
75%
Three quarters of people with RA are female
>100
There are many types of arthritis: rheumatoid, osteoarthritis and gout are the most common
Rheumatoid arthritis research at Garvan
Our researchers examine the wide range of immune responses in the body, and the processes that underpin them. We also collaborate with clinicians to find better treatments for immunological diseases.
Our RA research 