The Mater Medical Research Institute (MMRI) conducts multiple research studies into diseases that specifically affect babies and children including Leukaemia and Diabetes. Researchers hope these studies will one day offer these young patients a faster recovery and a better chance of survival or possible cure.
Leukaemia is the most common form of childhood cancer with the majority of children diagnosed suffering from Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL). Thanks to extensive research by organisations like the MMRI, survival rates are dramatically increasing. Twenty years ago children with ALL had a 20% survival rate – now it’s approaching 85%. Currently scientists at the Institute are busy studying our genetic make-up to better treat childhood leukaemia.
Diabetes is another common disease that affects young children. In a recent study, researchers at the MMRI identified a testing method that could be used to predict from a very early age whether a child is likely to suffer from Type 1 Diabetes. This breakthrough is likely to inspire new therapies to better manage childhood diabetes.
