FAQs - Frequently asked questions

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an important chronic condition that is responsible for significant disability and loss of quality of life in many of those affected. The purpose of the studies are to provide new insights into why medicines are effective or ineffective in patients that are newly diagnosed with RA (3TR PARTNER-RA), and also in patients that have not responded to disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (3TR Precis-The-RA).

The reason a patient may be chosen is because they have rheumatoid arthritis, and they are being treated at a participating hospital.

It is always up to the individual whether they or not to take part in research or not. If you decide to take part, you are still free to withdraw at any time and without giving a reason. This will not affect the standard of care you receive.

There is no direct benefit to patients who choose to participate in either study. However, their participation may lead to better knowledge and contribute data that informs future treatment guidelines for early and established arthritis therapies which may benefit patients in the future. The study drug may be effective for your arthritis.

This research is being organised by Professor Costantino Pitzalis at the Centre for Experimental Medicine and Rheumatology at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), who are the sponsor of the study. Participant’s samples will be analysed and stored in the centre’s laboratory in London. Samples may be shared with other 3TR collaborators, and third parties, in Europe and outside Europe.

This is an academic study sponsored by Queen Mary University of London who are based in the United Kingdom.

Yes, participant’s information will be kept confidential during their participation in this study. All data and samples sent to Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) will be labelled with a study ID number, no names or other information which could identify participants will leave the participant’s hospital. Names or other personal identifiers will not be released or used in any publication or disseminated study information. The participant’s hospital will keep names, NHS number and contact details confidential and will not pass this information to QMUL. Certain individuals from QMUL and regulatory organisations may look at participants medical and research records to check the accuracy of the data and to ensure the research is being carried out correctly.

Speak to your rheumatologist to see if your hospital is a participating site. Alternatively, you can contact the team at Queen Mary University of London who are coordinating the research. Their details can be found on the Contacts page.