Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

New Drug Delays Rheumatoid Arthritis Onset by Four Years

1/22/2026

47 10

Summary

Story summary

King’s College London researchers report that abatacept delays rheumatoid arthritis onset by up to four years in high-risk individuals.
The Lancet Rheumatology published the study, which followed participants for four to eight years and found benefits beyond one year.
Lead author Andrew Cope stresses early intervention for lasting benefits.
Arthritis UK’s Deborah Alsina praises the findings and calls for prompt diagnosis and personalized treatment.

1 of 1

Story summary

King’s College London researchers report that abatacept delays rheumatoid arthritis onset by up to four years in high-risk individuals.
The Lancet Rheumatology published the study, which followed participants for four to eight years and found benefits beyond one year.
Lead author Andrew Cope stresses early intervention for lasting benefits.
Arthritis UK’s Deborah Alsina praises the findings and calls for prompt diagnosis and personalized treatment.