New treatment for debilitating condition approved
People with arthritis may find it easier to get insurance as a new drug for the condition has been granted approval.
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (Nice) advised adalimumab as an option for adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who have already trialled two disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs.
Andrew Dillon, the chief executive of Nice, pointed out that the approval of the drugs, known as anti-TNF medication, is "good news" for sufferers of RA.
"By recommending the use of these drugs, people in England and Wales with this condition have access to effective treatments when they need them," Mr Dillon commented.
Nice has ruled however that treatment with the medication should only continue if there is sufficient response after six months.
Campaigners from Arthritis Care welcomed the new guidelines, with the charity’s head of policy campaigns highlighting that sufferers should have "the widest choice of proven treatments available".
"These drugs are life changing, and in some cases life saving," said Abigail Page.
More than seven million adults in the UK - 15 per cent of the population - have long-term health problems because of arthritis and related conditions, with obesity a major risk factor for those with osteoarthritis of the knee.
The Insurance Helpline specialises in obtaining cover for people living with medical conditions
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