Genetic and Social Network Correlates of Rheumatoid Arthritis Outcomes in Hispanic Populations: A Prospective Study

Background:

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is more severe in Hispanic people. Genetics plays a role. But social issues may also lead to more severe RA in Hispanics. Some Hispanics may not seek help for early symptoms. Support from family and friends may persuade people to seek treatment earlier. Researchers want to learn more about how social factors affect RA in Hispanics.

Objective:

This natural history study will explore genetic and social factors related to RA in Hispanic families.

Eligibility: People aged 18 years or older of Hispanic/Latino heritage. They may have RA or RA symptoms; they may also have a relative or partner with RA or RA symptoms.

Design:

Participants will receive an email or text with a link to a 30-minute online survey. They will answer questions about these things:

Physical and emotional health

How health problems affect their life

Family history of RA and other conditions

Cultural identity and language preference

Participants may also answer these questions in a phone call or an in-person interview.

Participants will be asked to list people in their social network. They will answer questions about those relationships. They will be asked if they want to invite their family and friends to participate in the study.

If more than 1 person from a participant s family takes part in the study, they may be invited for an interview. They will answer questions about how arthritis pain affects their mind and body.

Participants will give a sample of saliva. They will spit into a vial. They will mail it in using a prepaid label.