The Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024, provides $10 million for a new peer reviewed arthritis research program, or ATRP, managed by the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs.

Those interested in learning more about the upcoming ATRP stakeholder meeting and all ATRP communications are encouraged to subscribe for program email notifications at the following webpage: https://ebrap.org/eBRAP/programSubscription/Subscribe.htm

As directed by Congress, the ATRP will support research on all forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis, posttraumatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. The overall goal of the program is to reduce the detrimental impacts of arthritis on Service Members, their Families, Veterans, and the American public.

Although CDMRP funded research for arthritis and arthritis-related condition through other programs, the FY24 appropriation creates a stand-alone program dedicated to supporting arthritis research.

Defined by swelling or tenderness of one of more joints, arthritis may lead to pain and stiffness that can affect a person's wellbeing, quality of life, and overall health. According to the CDC, certain characteristics can be associated with individual arthritic conditions with over 100 types of arthritis and related conditions. Yet, there are many knowledge gaps that impede the development of personalized prevention and care strategies for arthritis patients.

Consistent with the proven process in identifying and funding high-impact research, the CDMRP will solicit for stakeholder input on high priority, research gaps areas for the ATRP. Representatives from non-profit and other organizations, such as academia, industry, military, Veteran, and government institutions, will have the opportunity to share perspectives on major research and knowledge gaps as part of the process to identify approaches with the greatest potential to propel the science forward toward solutions for those impacted by arthritis.

Updates from the stakeholder meeting will also be posted to this webpage in the near future.