RA Drugs Linked to Slight Skin Cancer Risk

(Page 2)

"The whole issue of the side effects of these biological agents is so controversial and unclarified," said Christopher Evans, the Robert W. Lovett professor of orthopedic surgery at the Center for Molecular Orthopaedics at Harvard Medical School.

"This study contradicts other studies that suggested greater risks. If the data hold up, I think it's encouraging for patients," he said.

Some patients with rheumatoid arthritis end up crippled, and their life expectancy is shortened, Evans said.

"If I were a severe rheumatoid arthritis patient whose quality of life depended upon these drugs, I'd continue to take them," he said. "The risk of melanoma is less than the risk of leading a shortened, miserable existence."

More information

To learn more about rheumatoid arthritis, visit the Arthritis Foundation.