Potential impact of observational cohort studies in Japan on rheumatoid arthritis research and practice

Mod Rheumatol. 2006;16(2):75-6. doi: 10.1007/s10165-006-0464-8.

Abstract

For better management of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, we need information both from well-designed clinical trials, such as randomized controlled trials, and from observational cohorts. Observational cohort study has not been developed in Japanese RA patients; however, two cohorts, IORRA (formerly J-ARAMIS) from 2000 and NinJa by iR-net from 2002, have been established. These two cohorts are an important source not only for better management of Japanese RA patients but also for solutions to a variety of issues concerning RA clinical practice in general. In this minireview, necessities of observational cohort studies are discussed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antirheumatic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / drug therapy*
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / etiology
  • Arthritis, Rheumatoid / physiopathology
  • Biomedical Research / methods*
  • Cohort Studies*
  • Databases, Factual
  • Evidence-Based Medicine*
  • Humans
  • Japan
  • Rheumatology / methods*

Substances

  • Antirheumatic Agents