Online Platform Aims to Educate Health Professionals on Managing Rheumatic Side Effects of Cancer Treatments

February 14, 2025 (Vancouver) – Arthritis Research Canada research scientists, collaborating with the Canadian Research Group of Rheumatology in Immuno-Oncology, have developed a web-based educational initiative, CanRIO. This innovative platform supports healthcare providers in better understanding, diagnosing, and treating patients who experience rheumatic side effects caused by cancer treatments.

Immunotherapy treatments, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), are vital in cancer care. However, these treatments can cause autoimmune or inflammatory rheumatic conditions known as de novo rheumatic immune-related adverse events (Rh-irAEs), which mimic autoimmune diseases. These side effects can range from joint pain to more severe complications. In addition, management of patients with pre-existing rheumatic disease who develop cancer and are treated with ICIs presents a unique challenge for rheumatologists.

Diagnosing and managing these conditions can be challenging for many healthcare providers due to limited experience and knowledge. To address these gaps, Arthritis Research Canada research scientists, CanRIO specialists, medical oncologists, and a pharmacist have created a comprehensive platform offering a suite of educational tools and resources. These include interactive learning modules, and additional materials to support cancer doctors, specialists, and rheumatologists in treating ICI-related side effects. Additionally, the platform hosts case-based rounds that are accessible to healthcare providers worldwide, fostering cross-discipline and regional collaboration in solving difficult cases.

“There is a growing need for specialized knowledge in managing ICI-related side effects, and keeping up with the latest developments can feel overwhelming,” said Dr. Janet Roberts, a Clinician Investigator at Arthritis Research Canada. “CanRIO aims to close knowledge gaps by equipping healthcare professionals with necessary information to navigate these complexities and deliver optimal patient care.”

Between February 2021 and August 2024, the platform attracted 4,458 users from 99 countries, including Canada, the United States, and China. Most users were rheumatologists or trainees, and data indicated a significant improvement in their knowledge after completing the learning modules.

“Through CanRIO, we are creating a global community of healthcare providers who can learn from and support one another,” Roberts added. “Since its launch, the CanRIO website has been instrumental in disseminating knowledge about these side effects, helping doctors, trainees, and other users to deepen their understanding.”

The next research phase will explore how the knowledge gained from the platform impacts clinical practices and patient health outcomes while encouraging further international collaboration.

 To view the CanRIO website, click here.

CanRIO publications: 

• Chronicity of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor–Associated Inflammatory Arthritis After Immunotherapy Discontinuation: Results From the Canadian Research Group of Rheumatology in Immuno-Oncology Database
• Improving Knowledge Dissemination of Rheumatic Toxicities of Cancer Immunotherapy: A Web‐Based Educational Initiative
• Effect of Age on Rheumatic Immune-Related Adverse Events: Experience From the Canadian Research Group of Rheumatology in Immuno-Oncology (CanRIO

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ABOUT ARTHRITIS RESEARCH CANADA:

Arthritis Research Canada is the largest clinical arthritis research institution in North America. Our mission is to transform the lives of people impacted by arthritis through patient-centred research and engagement. Arthritis Research Canada’s scientific director, Dr. Diane Lacaille is leading a team of over 100 researchers, trainees and staff whose life-changing research is creating a future where people living with arthritis have the knowledge and tools to triumph over pain and disability. Arthritis Research Canada is now conducting arthritis research from coast to coast with centres in British Columbia, Alberta, Quebec, and Nova Scotia and scientists affiliated with eight major Canadian universities: University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, University of Calgary, Université Laval, McGill University, Université de Montréal, Université de Sherbrooke and Dalhousie University. Arthritis Research Canada is leading research aimed at preventing arthritis, facilitating early diagnosis, finding new and better treatments, and improving quality of life.

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Heather Caulder

Marketing and Communications Officer
Arthritis Research Canada
604-207-4010
hcaulder@arthritisresearch.ca