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Alessandro, would you like to take part in arthritis research that could discover the next big treatment breakthrough?

Over the years we have made incredible progress towards discovering new arthritis treatments, but we know these moves towards potentially life-changing breakthroughs can’t happen unless we work together with people with arthritis.

Arthritis research doesn’t just happen in the wards of hospitals or in laboratories, it can happen in your community and even in your home. And most studies can’t happen without people like you taking part.

Did you know there are hundreds of arthritis research projects happening right now that are looking for people living with arthritis to take part in?

There's lots of reasons to volunteer to take part in arthritis research. It's the key to developing new treatments, finding better ways for people to manage their symptoms and providing better care. It’s also our key to finding a cure.

Finding research projects to participate in is easier than ever, the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) – who we partner with to power many of our research projects – have a programme called Be Part of Research. Their database lets you quickly and easily search for a project that’s the right fit for you.

There are over 170 arthritis research projects taking place right now across the UK, covering a huge range of studies you can get involved in, whatever type of arthritis you live with and wherever you are in your diagnosis journey.

There is a project tracking the progress of people with rheumatoid arthritis who have been prescribed biologics to observe the long term safety of these medicines. A study that is testing the effectiveness of an app that provides tailored exercise programs and self-management resources for a range of upper limb MSK disorders. There’s even a study asking people with osteoarthritis to share their thoughts and feelings on the care they've received for their arthritis and their weight.

Registering to take part is quick and easy, you can use your email address or NHS number to create an account and find a study that’s right for you. Every one all of the projects listed on Be Part of Research are fully-approved and controlled to protect people taking part. Many studies need both people with or without health conditions. So even if you don't have an arthritis diagnosis, you can still sign up to Be Part of Research and make a difference.

We know that taking part in a research study might feel like a daunting thing to volunteer for. Remember that research teams are relying on your help and so are very friendly and want to make it as easy as possible for you to get started and to take part. Your participation can help learn more, new information about your condition, lead to new treatments, tests, and tools and improve healthcare developments.

Thank you for supporting arthritis research.