‘Observe’ World Retina Week this September
Optic experts hope to raise R1-million to bring IRD treatments to SA.
FROM 9 to 25 September, the world observes World Retina Week to create awareness on Inherited Retinal Disorders [IRD] and progress towards a cure that research has made possible.
As millions of people around the world lose their sight, international research findings in the fields of gene replacement, stem cell therapy, pharmaceutical interventions, optogenetics and gene editing now offers hope for imminent treatment.
Currently all DNA test are done overseas at high profile machinery and expanse.
The only way to bring the technology to South Africa would be to raise R1m to establish an IRD diagnostic panel at the Division of Human Genetics at the University of Cape Town.
This will speed up the hunt, reduce costs and find the elusive gene mutations unique to South African indigenous populations.
They also need public support to pay for genetic testing of young patients from needy families.
The gene hunters at the University of Cape Town are uniquely equipped to hunt for the genetic mutations in patients affected by Retinitis Pigmentosa, Macular Dystrophies and degenerations, Usher Syndrome, Leber Congenital Amaurosis and dozens of other rare and serious retinal disorders.
Researchers estimate that 10 million South Africans carry a single copy of a genetic mutation for one of the recessive forms of IRD – the most common form that usually occurs in families with no previous history of blindness.
Retina South Africa has determined that treatments produced during clinical trials must be made available to all South African patients to help fight the optical problems.
Tax deductions and BBEE points are available for sponsors. For more information visit, www.retinasa.org.za.
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