A Message From Our Program Leader, Paramvir Sidhu, M.D.
Rheumatology is a dynamic field that blends the science of immunology with the care of musculoskeletal health. Over the past 30 years, groundbreaking discoveries in immune system research have transformed how we diagnose and treat rheumatic diseases, making this an exciting and rapidly evolving specialty.
Diseases such as vasculitis and lupus, once considered a death sentence, are now manageable. Today, patients with these conditions not only enjoy a normal life span but also experience a quality of life comparable to their peers, thanks to the development of targeted therapies.
Gone are the wheelchairs that were once a common sight in rheumatoid clinics half a century ago. Major hospitals no longer maintain inpatient rheumatology units because we can now manage these patients comfortably at home.
About Our Program
Rheumatology research is driven by a deep commitment to improving patient outcomes through innovation and collaboration.
While recent medical breakthroughs may seem miraculous, they are the result of tireless work by basic scientists, clinical researchers, practicing rheumatologists, and—most importantly—patients who generously participate in clinical trials to help others facing similar conditions.
Establishing a new research program takes a village, and this is especially true in rheumatology, where both the science and logistics are highly complex. Our program was founded on the belief that every patient should have access to the latest, most promising treatment options. Through key clinical trials, we aim to bring new therapies to approval and into the hands of those who need them most.
Our Team:
We are proud to have eight rheumatologists on our team, each trained at some of the nation’s top programs. Their expertise and dedication form the backbone of our research efforts.
We’ve also developed a pathway for rheumatology fellows to engage in every stage of the research process—from trial design to patient care—fostering a deeper understanding and enthusiasm for advancing rheumatology research.
Our Collaborations:
We are actively building a statewide rheumatology research alliance in partnership with:
- American College of Rheumatology
- Rheumatology Research Foundation
- Phoenix Rheumatology Association
- Arizona United Rheumatology Alliance
- University of Arizona
- Arizona State University
- Arthritis Foundation
- Lupus Foundation of America
- American Society for Bone Mineral Research
This collaborative network will expand access to cutting-edge research and strengthen our ability to deliver impactful results.
Research Focus:
Our program includes a robust pipeline of Phase I–IV clinical trials.
Our mission is to bring highly relevant rheumatology research to our community—delivering benefits to patients both now and in the future.
Rheumatology Facts and Figures
Over 53 million adults in the U.S. have been diagnosed with arthritis, making it one of the nation’s most common chronic health conditions.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects about 1.3 million American adults; 75% are women. The most common age of onset is between 30 and 50 years old.
Long-term studies show that patients with early rheumatoid arthritis who were treated using targeted therapy protocols achieved 91% low disease activity and 68% remission rates, significantly improving quality of life and reducing joint damage.
