MINIREVIEW
Potential impact of observational cohort studies in Japan on rheumatoid arthritis research and practice
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Hisashi Yamanaka1 and Shigeto Tohma2
| (1) |
Institute of Rheumatology, Tokyo Women's Medical University, 10-22 Kawada-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-0054, Japan |
| (2) |
Clinical Research Center for Allergy and Rheumatology, National Hospital Organization, Sagamihara National Hospital, Sagamihara, Japan |
Received: 24 January 2006 Accepted: 20 February 2006
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.
Key words Cohort study - Prospective - Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) |
