This is the official website of the South African Rheumatism and Arthritis Association, home of the rheumatology community of South Africa. Our aim is to promote, maintain and protect the honour and interest of the discipline of rheumatology as a medical specialty for the benefit of all.

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Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

Juvenile Idiopathic
Arthritis

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is a type of arthritis that causes joint inflammation and stiffness for more than six weeks in a child aged 16 or younger. JIA is relatively common. The diagnosis is often missed and there are delays in getting children the right care . Arthritis in children is different to adults and needs careful consideration. Children are growing and have special educational, medical and development needs. Access to the right care gives children with JIA the chance to grow up just like anyone else.

A Brief
Intro to JIA

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) is an autoimmune disease. Autoimmunity means immunity against self: The
immune system attacks the body as if it were a virus or other harmful organism. JIA patients generally do
well when they’re diagnosed quickly and treated appropriately.

Recent Study
in Canada

A recent study from Canada showing that you can achieve inactive disease in JIA within a year with early treatment

Peadiatric Task
Force Newsletter