Grant: Doctoral Research Award: Canada Graduate Scholarships

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are diseases of the immune system that affect many parts of the body (including joints, heart, eyes and skin), dramatically altering quality of life and can result in other medical complications and ultimately death. A drug called hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is commonly used to treat SLE and RA. Many studies have highlighted benefits of HCQ, including less severe disease, fewer complications (such as blood clots, problems with pregnancy or kidneys), and longer life. Stopping HCQ can lead to episodes of more severe disease. Also, because HCQ is safe and inexpensive, this drug is now also being studied as a method to prevent RA in people who are at risk. Although HCQ is typically safe and easy to take, a serious long-term side-effect is eye damage that could cause blindness. Although it was previously thought that there was a very small risk of vision damage, a recent study showed that the risk may be greater. However, the way that study was designed might have overestimated that risk. Therefore, it is important to determine the 'real risk' using state-of-the-art eye testing equipment. Given the benefits and common use of HCQ, it is critical that the real risk be determined, and findings shared with doctors and patients, so that patients receive the best and safest care, and the health care system can use its dollars wisely.