The Arthritis and Inflammatory Diseases Charity supports the rheumatology and arthritis services at Leeds Teaching Hospitals

The service has an international reputation for the investigation and management of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases. As a centre of excellence, Leeds is at the forefront of world-leading research, including studies which have shown that patients with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can be identified via immune abnormalities several years before diagnosis, because of protein
found in their blood.

In response, Professor Paul Emery and the team at Chapel Allerton Hospital have developed a referral network of 500 people who are at risk of developing arthritis, which will give them quicker access to treatment if required. Patients will trial drug therapies and non-invasive conservative treatments such as dental hygiene, smoking cessation and dietary manipulation to help reduce their risk of developing the condition.

"The funding from Leeds Hospitals Charity has been a real stepping-stone for us, it has allowed us to shift our focus from early diagnosis of conditions like rheumatoid arthritis to exploring preventative measures."

Kulveer Mankia, Clinical Associate Professor and Honorary Consultant Rheumatologist