This episode explores the evolving intersection of rheumatology and cognitive science, beginning with what initially drew researchers to investigate cognitive symptoms in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We discuss the prevalence and nature of patient-reported cognitive concerns, how these subjective complaints compare with objective neurocognitive testing, and what current studies reveal underlying inflammatory and neurobiological mechanisms. The conversation examines the cognitive effects of commonly used RA therapies, as well as modifiable contributors—including physical activity, sleep apnea, diet, and stress—that clinicians should assess in routine practice. We also consider when formal neuropsychological evaluation is warranted, how to counsel patients seeking to prevent cognitive decline, and the most pressing unanswered questions that remain in the field.
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26:36
Assessing and Addressing Grief and Depression Utilizing Lifestyle Medicine
In this episode, we explore what happens when clinicians look beyond the prescription pad and begin listening more deeply to what their patients have lost. This isn't a conversation about rejecting medications but about expanding the tools we use to foster healing. We discuss the concept of disenfranchised grief—the often-unspoken losses that accompany chronic illness—the intricate links between depression and inflammation, and the transformative power of helping patients heal in ways that no pill alone can achieve. This episode was sponsored by Pfizer
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Therapeutic Advances in CPPD
In this episode, we shine a light on Calcium Pyrophosphate Deposition Disease (CPPD)—a condition that has been hiding in plain sight for decades. Despite being common, painful, and prevalent in clinics everywhere, CPPD has long been misdiagnosed, undertreated, and under-researched. Our guest has been working to change that by uncovering the genetic and molecular underpinnings of the disease and exploring new ways to improve patient outcomes. We discuss what's new and what's next for CPPD, why it may be the most common inflammatory arthritis after age 60, how it overlaps with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, and what emerging studies of biologics are revealing about its biology and untapped therapeutic potential. This episode was sponsored by Pfizer
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RheumCode
In this episode, we explore RheumCode, a groundbreaking new initiative from the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) designed to build a common digital language for rheumatology. RheumCode aims to ensure that data means the same thing wherever it lives—whether in an EHR, a clinic, or a registry—enabling systems to seamlessly communicate and make better use of the medical information already being documented. We discussed how RheumCode began, the collaboration behind its development, and its potential to transform the way clinicians practice; researchers study disease, and patients experience their care. This episode was sponsored by Pfizer
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39:26
Get Ready for ACR Convergence 2025
Welcome to ACR Convergence 2025 in Chicago! Here, Dr. Hausmann delivers a quick update on what our podcasts will cover while the meeting is in session. Don't forget to tune in to ACR on Air and ACR Journals on Air each morning, starting this Saturday, to catch up on the latest in Rheumatology
As the official podcast of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR), ACR on Air seeks to have informative and engaging conversations rheumatology professionals want to hear – ranging in topic from trends in clinical practice, to issues affecting rheumatology professionals, and the changing landscape of the rheumatology field. Tune in twice a month for engaging interviews and commentary.
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