Remission is no longer an abstract idea for people living with AiArthritis diseases. Thanks to earlier diagnosis, better treatment options, and growing global awareness, more patients are reaching remission and staying there. In this episode of AiArthritis Voices 360, Health Education Manager Leila P. L. Valete sits down with Neil Betteridge of the Global Remission Coalition to explore what remission truly means and why it is becoming a realistic goal for many.
Together they unpack how remission differs from basic disease control and why that distinction is so important for daily life. They also talk through the emotional and practical impact of reaching remission, the role of early action, and the barriers that still prevent many patients from accessing timely care. The conversation highlights what sustainable remission looks like in the real world and how better education, support, and policy attention can help more people get there.
Whether you are newly diagnosed or years into your patient journey, this episode offers a grounded and hopeful look at the road to remission and the steps that can make a life-changing difference.
Episode Highlights:
What remission really means and how it differs from basic disease control
Why remission improves quality of life, mental health, and daily function
Key factors that help patients reach remission including early diagnosis and timely treatment
Common barriers patients face like limited access to specialists, treatment delays, and lack of information
What it takes to sustain remission through monitoring, adherence, and patient support
Links & Resources
Global Remissions resources: www.globalremission.org
AiArthritis remission information: https://www.aiarthritis.org/remission
Have questions about this episode or topics you want to hear us bring to the table? Email us at
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Connect with our Co Hosts:
Leila is the Health Education Manager at the International Foundation for AiArthritis. She is a person living with Lupus and Sjögren’s disease. She is passionate about inclusion and diversity in health education and meeting individuals where they are at in order to learn in a way that resonates with them.
Connect with Leila:
Tiktok: @Lupuslifestyle.lei
Neil Betteridge developed juvenile arthritis at age three, an experience that shaped his lifelong commitment to advocating for people with chronic diseases. He has led major patient organizations in the UK and globally, including serving as CEO of Arthritis Care and now as Senior Director of the Global Alliance for Patient Access, where he also chairs the Global Remission Coalition.
With decades of experience in public affairs and patient engagement, Neil has advised health ministers, worked with the Royal College of Physicians, and held key leadership roles in international networks such as the Global Alliance for Musculoskeletal Health and EULAR. His work continues to advance policy, access, and better outcomes for people living with chronic inflammatory conditions.
Connect with Neil:
Website: www.globalremission.org
X/Twitter: https://x.com/Neil_Betteridge