American College of Rheumatology Applauds House Lawmakers for Advancing DoD Arthritis Research Program

Dedicated Department of Defense Funding is a Major Step Forward in Preventing, Treating Arthritis Among Military Personnel

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) commended House lawmakers, led by Representatives Kay Granger (TX-12) and Ken Calvert (CA-42), for creating a line item to designate funding for arthritis research in the Department of Defense’s (DoD) Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program (CDMRP).

The DoD Peer Reviewed Medical Research Program (PRMRP) has funded arthritis research since 2009 but given the many demands on limited PRMRP funding, arthritis research is not guaranteed. Designating funding for arthritis research in the CDMRP, which was advanced as part of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 DoD Appropriations bill, will create consistency to expand research on arthritis risks, outcomes, and treatments amongst service members.

One in three veterans – compared to one in four members of the general population – are diagnosed with arthritis. Today, arthritis is the second-leading cause of medical discharge from the military, following battlefield wounds.

“Given the prevalence of arthritis in service members and the increasing cost of this disease to our Armed Forces, this investment in the health and well-being of our military personnel is much needed,” said Douglas White, MD, PhD, president of the American College of Rheumatology. “Through breakthrough research and treatment, this program will not only strengthen our military – but will benefit all Americans living with arthritis.”

Media Contact
Monica McDonald
mmcdonald@rheumatology.org
404-365-2162

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About the American College of Rheumatology
Founded in 1934, the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) is a not-for-profit, professional association committed to advancing the specialty of rheumatology that serves nearly 8,500 physicians, health professionals, and scientists worldwide. In doing so, the ACR offers education, research, advocacy and practice management support to help its members continue their innovative work and provide quality patient care. Rheumatology professionals are experts in the diagnosis, management and treatment of more than 100 different types of arthritis and rheumatic diseases.