For millions living with autoimmune diseases, progress has long felt out of reach. Approximately 8% of Americans have at least 1 autoimmune disease.1 These diseases bring fatigue, chronic pain, and emotional strain—yet in many instances, treatment options remain limited.
But there is hope. By advancing bold science and elevating patient voices to guide research, Novartis is exploring innovations—from AI-supported diagnosis to breakthrough CAR-T therapies—that address real needs for those living with autoimmune diseases.
The Everyday Impact of Autoimmune Diseases
Autoimmune diseases affect the entire body. Take Sjögren’s disease, which impacts as many as 4 million individuals in the United States.2 While dry eyes and mouth are the most recognized symptoms, the disease can also cause:
- Severe fatigue
- Joint pain
- Enlarged salivary glands
- Vaginal dryness and dry skin
- Damage to the lungs, nervous system, and other organs.3,4
Since Sjögren’s disease presents with varied and seemingly unrelated symptoms, individuals may see multiple healthcare providers—such as rheumatologists, dentists, optometrists, and other specialists—before receiving answers.5 This long journey can leave patients feeling isolated and discouraged.6
The challenges of autoimmune diseases extend beyond physical symptoms. One study shows that living with an autoimmune disease nearly doubles the risk of developing persistent mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.7 Women with autoimmune disorders face particularly elevated risks, experiencing higher rates of these mental health conditions compared to men with the same autoimmune diseases.7
“Every day without a diagnosis is another day patients struggle without answers or appropriate care," said Tony Yadao, VP and Head, US Medical Affairs, Immunology, Novartis. "We're committed to changing that reality for people living with autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and systemic sclerosis."
Novartis is investigating innovative approaches to other complex autoimmune conditions. CAR-T cell therapy, originally developed for cancer treatment, is being studied to modulate the immune system in conditions like lupus, systemic sclerosis, and myositis.
— Tony Yadao, VP and Head, US Medical Affairs, Immunology, Novartis
Listening, Learning, and Partnering With the Patient Community
At the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Convergence 2025, Novartis convened advocacy leaders and healthcare innovators to discuss how to improve patient understanding and engagement.
These experts explored how artificial intelligence and other technologies may help identify patterns in autoimmune disease symptoms, support earlier diagnosis, and enhance communication between patients and their healthcare teams.
Novartis includes patients in the research and development process. As a result, their needs and preferences are reflected in clinical trial and treatment design.
"For too long, people with autoimmune diseases have carried an invisible burden," said Lindsay Hall, Director of Patient Advocacy, Immunology, Novartis. “By working together, we can elevate patient voices and put them at the center of care."
Technology and deeper patient understanding can work together to improve care. But identifying disease patterns earlier is only part of the solution—people with autoimmune diseases also need more effective treatments to manage their conditions.
For millions who have felt left behind, this work offers recognition, hope for greater symptom relief, and the possibility of better disease control.
— Lindsay Hall, Director of Patient Advocacy, Immunology, Novartis
Shaping What’s Next in Autoimmune Care
With small molecules, biologics, CAR-T cell therapy, and more than 20 active clinical trials, Novartis is continuing to advance bold science, building on a legacy of first-in-class innovation across Rheumatology, Dermatology, and Allergy to raise the standard of care for autoimmune diseases.
In people with Sjögren’s disease, it is believed that immune cells called B cells become overactive and mistakenly attack the body. This abnormal activity causes inflammation and can damage tissues.8 Efforts to understand B-cell–driven mechanisms have opened new pathways for research.9 Novartis is currently exploring how therapies that effectively target B cells could potentially reduce disease burden for patients who currently have limited treatment options.
Beyond Sjögren’s disease, Novartis is investigating innovative approaches to other complex autoimmune conditions. CAR-T cell therapy, originally developed for cancer treatment, is being studied to modulate the immune system in conditions like lupus, systemic sclerosis, and myositis.10,11,12
This approach explores the possibility of an immune reset—a one-time treatment process that could potentially remove the burden of ongoing therapies for people living with serious, refractory autoimmune diseases.
Realizing the potential of this bold science will also require innovation in how we reach patients. Many are cared for by rheumatologists, whereas CAR-T expertise and infrastructure primarily can be found in hematology and oncology. Connecting these communities will be important to help eligible patients access emerging options.
"With CAR-T, we're exploring what was once thought impossible—adapting a technology developed for cancer to reimagine autoimmune care," explained Christy Siegel, Senior Vice President & U.S. Therapeutic Area Head, Immunology, Novartis US. "This innovative thinking reflects our willingness to challenge conventional approaches and pursue breakthrough technologies for patients who have waited for meaningful advances."
Bringing Meaningful Relief to Those Affected by Autoimmune Diseases
Novartis is reimagining medicine for autoimmune conditions by combining scientific innovation with patient-centered collaboration to accelerate progress.
Side by side with patients, researchers, healthcare providers, and advocates, Novartis is working to bring a renewed sense of hope for people with autoimmune diseases. For millions who have felt left behind, this work offers recognition, a path to greater symptom relief, and the possibility of better disease control— shaping a future where transformative autoimmune care can become reality.
