Transforming Immunology: How science is changing the future of inflammatory diseases
Michaela Hagenhofer, General Manager, Commercial Operations at Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine.
Immune-mediated diseases are often misunderstood conditions that can severely impact a person’s quality of life. They are long-term health conditions that happen when the immune system — which usually protects the body from illness — starts to attack healthy cells by mistake.
This can lead to ongoing inflammation, pain, fatigue, and damage to organs or tissues over time. Psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are among the immune-related conditions that can be debilitating for those living with it.
In Ireland, it is estimated that over 73,000 people live with psoriasis.i Around one in four of these individuals will develop psoriatic arthritis, a serious inflammatory disease that can cause irreversible joint damage if not diagnosed and treated early. ii In addition, at least 40,000 people are living with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. iii Patients affected by these chronic conditions often face long delays in accessing diagnosis and treatment, with specialist care still difficult to reach.
For instance, someone with psoriasis is likely to wait more than 12 months to secure an appointment with a dermatologist. iv Psoriasis illustrates how immune-mediated diseases can be misunderstood. Often perceived as a purely cosmetic skin condition, psoriasis can cause severe itching, burning, and cracked, bleeding skin.
It can significantly impact quality of life, affecting mental health, social engagement, and daily activities. One in four people living with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis, which can lead to joints becoming stiff, swollen and painful, causing permanent damage if left untreated.v At Johnson & Johnson, we believe that improving early diagnosis and having access to early intervention is critical to changing patient outcomes. Through technological innovation, data-driven approaches, and collaboration with healthcare professionals, we strive to support faster and more accurate identification of immune-mediated diseases.
These conditions are complex and life-altering, but progress in science offers hope. Over the past 30 years, J&J has pioneered targeted biologic therapies that work by intercepting specific inflammatory pathways. These treatments offer patients effective, faster-acting, and longer-lasting relief. Our diverse immunology portfolio spans across dermatology, rheumatology, and gastroenterology, with therapies that continue to evolve as we deepen our understanding of these conditions.
However, medical innovation is only impactful if patients can access it. That’s why J&J is deeply committed to equitable access to care across Ireland. We work closely with industry partners including patient advocacy groups, clinicians, and policymakers to ensure timely access to treatments and to make sure the patient voice shapes our solutions.
We are proud that Ireland plays a key role in J&J’s commitment to immunology. Our biopharmaceutical manufacturing site in Ringaskiddy, Co. Cork, has been operating since 2005. It produces key immune-related therapies used in over 100 countries. This includes support for clinical trials and early access programmes, linking local innovation to global impact.
Beyond medicine, we provide educational tools and platforms that empower patients throughout their care journey. In collaboration with Crohn’s and Colitis Ireland, we developed Gutcast—a podcast series for people living with IBD.
The series features patients sharing their experiences and healthcare professionals offering high-quality information for those navigating the challenges of living with IBD. More recently, we launched a survey that revealed 60% of people living with Crohn’s disease and colitis face financial difficulty because of their condition, highlighting the wider financial burden these patients often carry.vi Shining a light on the lived experience and promoting access to reliable information is an important part of our work.
In 2022, we launched Let’s Talk Psoriasis, an award-winning podcast and video series designed to help people manage their condition. Featuring guests including dermatologists, mental health experts, and patients themselves, the series covers a range of important topics such as treatment options, emotional wellbeing, nutrition, stigma and self-image.
Sustainability is another area of focus. The Safe Returns programme allows patients to return their used self-injection devices safely and easily. Over 270 devices have already been returned in Ireland, contributing to a more circular and environmentally responsible healthcare system.
Our R&D investment also continues to grow. In 2022, J&J Innovative Medicine invested €153 million in R&D in Ireland alone.vii We are advancing promising clinical trials, including studies and innovative combination therapies for psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis.
Through collaboration, research, and patient-driven innovation, we aim to transform the future of immune-mediated care. We want people affected by these conditions to not only live longer, but to live better.
If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, digestive discomfort or unexplained skin issues, speak to your GP.
References available on request.
