The report is based on the real world data of over 50,000 RA patients from more than 300 hospitals in China. It comprehensively displays the latest epidemiological data, clinical features, disease diagnosis and treatment, discipline resources and construction status, and opportunities and challenges of China's RA. It is hoped that the report can raise China's RA standardized diagnosis and treatment level and long-term management level, and improve the quality of life of patients with rheumatic immune diseases.

According to the report, there are currently around 5 million RA patients in China. The patient population is huge, and situations such as delayed diagnosis and treatment, condition aggravation and complications occur frequently.

Zeng Xiaofeng, director of the rheumatology and immunology department of Peking Union Medical College Hospital, said: "RA is a common disease in China. Because of late discipline construction, lack of medical professionals and disease awareness, there is a certain gap between China and the international advanced level in RA standardized diagnosis and treatment and follow-up management."

"The report covers RA patient data from both national 3A-grade hospitals to grass root-level medical institutions in China. It offers reference for government authorities to make policy decisions, while providing a scientific basis for the improvement of the standardized treatment level of medical professionals and related research. It is beneficial to raising the country's RA diagnosis and treatment level and bringing patients benefits," he said.

Tian Xinping, chief physician of the rheumatology and immunology department of Peking Union Medical College Hospital, said: "As noted by the report, RA is becoming a heavy burden for patients and their families, and even the whole society. Although so far, RA cannot be completely cured, early treatment can help patients achieve disease remission, avoid or delay the occurrence of irreversible damage, and improve long-term prognosis."

"It is expected that the launch of the report will raise public awareness and enhance the professional trainings of medical practitioners," he said.

Felix Cao, chief medical officer and vice-president of Pfizer China, said: "At Pfizer, our purpose is breakthroughs that change patients' lives. In the recent years, through constant exploration, we have established an increasingly complete pipeline of innovative drugs in the inflammation and immunity field, covering diseases such as RA, ankylosing spondylitis, atopic dermatitis, and alopecia areata. Meanwhile, we have been actively taking part in related research in China."

"With the launch of the report, it is expected that efforts can be joined to make China's RA standardized diagnosis and treatment in line with the international advanced level," he said.