NIH Establishes Office of Autoimmune Disease Research

On April 12, the Director of the National Institute of Health’s (NIH’s) Office of Research on Women’s Health announced the creation of the Office of Autoimmune Disease Research. This was mandated by Congress in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, which stemmed from recommendations made in the 2022 Enhancing NIH Research on Autoimmune Disease report (2022 Report).

Autoimmune diseases predominantly affect women and are a leading cause of death for women under the age of 75. There are over 100 autoimmune diseases that collectively impact the lives of millions of Americans (estimated at 8% of the population). Yet, the 2022 Report found a lack of "basic data" on autoimmune diseases and no concerted effort from the NIH to address the challenges facing autoimmune disease research.

“Autoimmune diseases are complex and share commonalities that would benefit from a coordinated, multidisciplinary research approach to better understand basic mechanisms, etiology and risk factors, and to support the development of interventions.

— 2022 Report on Enhancing NIH Research on Autoimmune Disease

The 2022 Report recommended the creation of such an office to elevate the visibility of autoimmune diseases and establish a clear focus for autoimmune disease research both within the NIH and externally. The goal is to coordinate research that is crosscutting among the various types of autoimmune diseases. This is directly in line with the Autoimmune Registry's mission. We look forward to advancing research in coordination with the NIH's Office of Autoimmune Disease Research.

To support our mission,please join our registry or share it with a friend who has an autoimmune condition. Donations are also greatly appreciated!