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Alzheimer's disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects the brain, leading to a decline in cognitive function, memory loss, and changes in behaviour and personality.
The exact cause of Alzheimer’s is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
The disease is characterized by the accumulation of amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain, which lead to the death of brain cells and shrinkage of brain tissue.
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, and symptoms typically develop gradually over time.
There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, and treatment is focused on managing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease through medication, lifestyle changes, and cognitive and behavioural therapies.
Aortic aneurysmAn aneurysm is a bulge or weakness in your blood vessel. When this happens in the aorta (one of the main blood vessels in the body), it’s called an aortic aneurysm.
The bulge in the aorta happens when part of your blood vessel wall grows weak. Aneurysms usually start small and then get bigger. They usually grow slowly.
Sometimes aneurysms burst and cause bleeding inside your body. Because the aorta is such a large blood vessel, this can be very dangerous and is often fatal (causes death).
AtherosclerosisAtherosclerosis is a narrowing of the arteries caused by a buildup of plaque.
Arteries are the blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients from your heart to the rest of your body. As you get older, fats, cholesterol, and calcium can collect in your arteries and form plaque. The buildup of plaque makes it difficult for blood to flow through your arteries. This buildup may occur in any artery in your body, including around your heart, legs, brain, and kidneys.
It can result in a shortage of blood and oxygen in various tissues of your body. Pieces of plaque can also break off, causing a blood clot. Without treatment, atherosclerosis can lead to heart attack, stroke, or heart failure, among other conditions.
Atherosclerosis is a fairly common problem associated with aging.
Blood cancerBlood cancer, also known as hematologic cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the blood, bone marrow, and lymphatic system.
It occurs when abnormal blood cells grow and multiply uncontrollably, interfering with the normal function of healthy blood cells.
The three main types of blood cancer are leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma. Symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, frequent infections, unexplained weight loss, and easy bruising or bleeding.
Treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, stem cell transplant, and immunotherapy, among others, depending on the type and stage of the cancer.
Stem Cell Regulation Genome Stability
DNA Repair & Recombination DNA Damage & Cancer TherapyBloom SyndromeBloom Syndrome is a rare and inherited genetic disorder characterized by short stature, sun-sensitive skin changes, an increased risk of cancer, and other health problems.
The condition is caused by mutations in the BLM gene, which plays a role in repairing damaged DNA.
Bloom Syndrome is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning that an individual must inherit two copies of the mutated BLM gene to develop the condition.
The severity of the condition can vary widely between individuals, but those with Bloom Syndrome have an increased risk of developing cancer, particularly leukemia and lymphoma.
There is currently no cure for Bloom Syndrome, and treatment is focused on managing symptoms and preventing complications. Early detection and genetic counselling are important to manage the condition and reduce the risk of cancer.
Bone Marrow Failure SyndromesBone Marrow Failure Syndromes are a collection of medical conditions where the bone marrow stops working, or works insufficiently.
This means that bone marrow stem cells can’t produce enough healthy red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets to meet the body’s daily requirements.
Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes may be acquired, meaning a previously healthy person can develop bone marrow failure. Bone Marrow Failure Syndromes can also be inherited in families where there may be a history of the condition.
Inherited bone marrow failure can lead to additional health challenges, including heart, skeletal malformations, kidney, eye and ear issues, and an increased risk of both solid organ and blood cancer.
Genome Stability DNA Repair & Recombination
RNA & T Cell BiologyBreast cancerBreast cancer is a disease in which abnormal breast cells grow out of control and form tumours. If left unchecked, the tumours can spread throughout the body and become fatal.
It is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australia, and it is estimated that one in 1 in 8 females and 1 in 667 males will be diagnosed by the time they are 85.
Breast cancer can have combinations of symptoms, especially when it is more advanced, although most will not experience any symptoms when the cancer is still early.
Symptoms of breast cancer can include:
- a breast lump or thickening, often without pain
- change in size, shape or appearance of the breast
- dimpling, redness, pitting or other changes in the skin
- change in nipple appearance or the skin surrounding the nipple (areola)
- abnormal or bloody fluid from the nipple.
People with an abnormal breast lump should seek medical care, even if the lump does not hurt.
Most breast lumps are not cancer. Breast lumps that are cancerous are more likely to be successfully treated when they are small and have not spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Breast cancers may spread to other areas of the body and trigger other symptoms. Often, the most common first detectable site of spread is to the lymph nodes under the arm although it is possible to have cancer-bearing lymph nodes that cannot be felt.
Over time, cancerous cells may spread to other organs including the lungs, liver, brain and bones. Once they reach these sites, new cancer-related symptoms such as bone pain or headaches may appear.
Covid-19COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, that was first identified in Wuhan, China in December 2019.
The virus spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, as well as by touching a surface contaminated with the virus and then touching one’s face.
The symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to severe and include fever, cough, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, and difficulty breathing.
COVID-19 can cause severe respiratory illness, leading to hospitalization and death, particularly in older adults and those with underlying health conditions.
Measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 include wearing masks, practicing physical distancing, washing hands frequently, and getting vaccinated when vaccines are available.
National Serology Reference Laboratory
DementiaDementia is a broad term used to describe a range of progressive neurological disorders that affect cognitive function, including memory, language, and decision-making abilities.
Dementia can be caused by a variety of factors, such as Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia, among others.
Symptoms of dementia can include memory loss, disorientation, personality changes, and difficulty with daily tasks. The progression and severity of dementia can vary depending on the type and individual factors, and there is currently no cure for most forms of dementia.
Treatment options for dementia focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life, and can include medications, lifestyle modifications, and supportive therapies such as cognitive stimulation or occupational therapy.
Caregiver support and education are also important components of dementia management, as the disease can have significant impacts on both individuals with dementia and their loved ones.
Fanconi AnaemiaFanconi Anaemia (FA) is a rare and inherited genetic disorder that affects the bone marrow’s ability to produce blood cells.
The condition is caused by mutations in genes that play a role in DNA repair, and can result in bone marrow failure, an increased risk of cancer, and other health problems.
FA is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning that an individual must inherit two copies of the mutated gene to develop the condition.
Symptoms of FA can include fatigue, weakness, increased susceptibility to infections, and abnormal bruising or bleeding.
Treatment options for FA vary depending on the severity and type of the disease, but can include blood transfusions, bone marrow transplantation, and medications to manage symptoms. Early detection and genetic counselling are important to manage the condition and reduce the risk of cancer.
Genome Stability DNA Repair & Recombination
Friedreich AtaxiaFriedreich Ataxia is a rare and progressive neuromuscular disorder that primarily affects the nervous system, muscular system, and the heart.
The condition is caused by a genetic mutation that affects the production of a protein called frataxin, which is involved in the normal functioning of mitochondria.
Symptoms of Friedreich Ataxia can include progressive difficulty with balance and coordination, muscle weakness, and decreased sensation in the arms and legs.
The condition can also cause heart problems such as arrhythmias and cardiomyopathy.
There is currently no cure for Friedreich Ataxia, and treatment is focused on managing symptoms and providing supportive care, such as physical therapy, speech therapy, and mobility aids.
As Friedreich Ataxia is a rare and complex disease, early detection and genetic counselling are important to ensure the best possible outcomes for those affected by the condition.
Heart diseaseHeart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease, refers to a range of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias.
These conditions can develop over time due to a build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries, high blood pressure, or damage to the heart muscle.
Symptoms can vary depending on the type of heart disease but may include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet.
Treatment options can include lifestyle changes, medications, or surgical procedures, depending on the severity of the condition.
Prevention of heart disease is possible through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Human T-cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV)Human T-cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV) is a type of retrovirus that infects T-cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system.
There are two types of HTLV: HTLV-1 and HTLV-2.
HTLV-1 is associated with adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL), a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the T-cells, as well as with a chronic inflammatory disease of the nervous system called HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP).
HTLV-2 is less pathogenic and has been linked to an increased risk of developing infectious and autoimmune diseases.
HTLV is primarily spread through sexual contact, blood transfusions, and sharing of contaminated needles. There is currently no cure for HTLV, and treatment is focused on managing the symptoms of the associated conditions.
Idiopathic Pulmonary FibrosisIdiopathic Pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive disease that causes lung tissue to become thickened and scarred. This scarring makes the lungs stiff, making it increasingly difficult to breathe deeply.
The term ‘idiopathic’ means no known cause, but it usually affects people who are around 70 to 75 years old, and is rare in people under 50.
Several treatments can help reduce the rate at which IPF gets worse, but there’s currently no treatment that can stop or reverse the scarring of the lungs.
InfertilityInfertility is a condition in which a person is unable to conceive a child despite having regular unprotected sexual intercourse for a year or longer.
Infertility can affect both men and women and can have a variety of causes, including hormonal imbalances, issues with the reproductive organs, or problems with the quality or quantity of sperm.
Treatment for infertility may include medications to stimulate ovulation or sperm production, surgery to correct any physical issues, or assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also improve fertility.
Lewy Body DementiaLewy body dementia is a disorder where round clumps of protein (called Lewy bodies) build up abnormally in the brain, causing the death of nerve cells. The Lewy bodies affect specific areas of the brain, which leads to symptoms affecting memory, thinking, movement and behaviour.
Lewy body dementia has symptoms similar to Alzheimer’s disease — including thinking problems and disorientation, but differs in that mental function fluctuates between good and poor in the early stages.
The problems with thinking and problems with movement usually appear within a year of each other in people with Lewy body dementia. Usually the thinking problems come first. The movement problems include stiff muscles, shuffling when walking and stooping over (in common with people with Parkinson’s disease).
People may also have problems with sleep, including acting out their dreams, which may result in them shouting out or thrashing about in their sleep. This sleep disorder may happen years before the other symptoms of Lewy body dementia.
LipodemaLipoedema is a chronic and progressive condition that affects mostly women and is characterized by an abnormal accumulation of fat cells in the lower body, particularly in the hips, thighs, and legs, which can result in a disproportionate and painful enlargement of these areas.
The cause of lipoedema is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to hormonal imbalances, genetics, or other factors.
Lipoedema can be difficult to diagnose, and is often misdiagnosed as obesity or lymphedema. Symptoms may include pain, tenderness, easy bruising, and swelling, as well as limited mobility and decreased quality of life.
There is no cure for lipoedema, but treatments such as compression garments, lymphatic drainage, surgical intervention, and weight management can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Liver diseaseLiver disease refers to a range of conditions that can affect the liver, an essential organ responsible for processing nutrients, filtering toxins, and producing bile to aid in digestion.
The most common causes of liver disease include alcohol consumption, viral infections such as hepatitis B and C, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and autoimmune disorders.
Symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of liver disease, but may include fatigue, abdominal pain and swelling, jaundice, nausea and vomiting, and changes in appetite and weight.
Treatment options for liver disease can include lifestyle changes, medications, or in severe cases, liver transplantation.
Prevention measures include limiting alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, getting vaccinated against hepatitis, and avoiding exposure to toxic substances. Early detection and treatment of liver disease can help to prevent irreversible damage and improve outcomes.
LymphoedemaLymphoedema is a chronic condition that occurs when the lymphatic system, which helps to remove excess fluid from the body, is damaged or disrupted, leading to the accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the tissues, typically in the arms or legs.
Lymphoedema can be caused by a variety of factors, including cancer treatment, infection, injury, or hereditary conditions.
Symptoms may include swelling, discomfort, limited mobility, and an increased risk of infections.
While there is no cure for lymphoedema, various treatments such as compression garments, manual lymphatic drainage, exercise, and skin care can help to manage symptoms and prevent complications. Early detection and prompt treatment can also help to prevent the progression of the condition.
Metabolic disordersMetabolic disorders are a group of conditions that affect the body’s metabolic processes, including the way the body converts food into energy.
These disorders can result from a variety of genetic mutations or environmental factors, and can affect different aspects of metabolism, such as the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, or proteins.
Examples of metabolic disorders include diabetes, phenylketonuria, and lysosomal storage disorders such as Gaucher’s disease.
Symptoms of metabolic disorders can vary depending on the specific condition, but may include developmental delays, growth abnormalities, neurological symptoms, or changes in organ function.
Treatment options for metabolic disorders can include lifestyle changes, medications, and in some cases, enzyme replacement therapy or organ transplantation. Early detection and treatment of metabolic disorders is important to prevent complications and improve outcomes.
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Multiple MyelomaMultiple myeloma, or myeloma, is a type of cancer that affects your plasma cells. Plasma cells are a type of white blood cell that help fight infection as part of your immune system.
Myeloma causes plasma cells to grow abnormally and build up in your bone marrow (the inside of your bones). These abnormal plasma cells are known as myeloma cells.
The cause of myeloma is not known but it is more common later in life. This may be the ageing process itself, or the result of a lifelong accumulation of toxic substances.
It is estimated that more than 2,600 people in Australia were diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2023. The average age at diagnosis is 71 years old.
ObesityObesity is a medical condition characterized by excess body fat, usually defined by a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. It is a growing global health issue and is associated with a range of health problems such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and some types of cancer.
Obesity is caused by an imbalance between calories consumed and calories expended, influenced by a range of factors including genetics, environment, and lifestyle.
Preventative measures for obesity include maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, getting enough sleep, and reducing sedentary behaviour.
Treatment options for obesity can include dietary changes, exercise programs, medication, and in some cases, bariatric surgery. Obesity is a complex issue and requires a multifaceted approach to address its prevention and management.
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OsteoporosisOsteoporosis is a progressive bone disease that results in decreased bone density and increased risk of fractures. It occurs when the body loses too much bone mass or makes too little new bone, causing bones to become weak and brittle.
Osteoporosis is often asymptomatic until a fracture occurs, and commonly affects the spine, hip, and wrist.
Risk factors for osteoporosis include aging, low body weight, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a family history of the disease.
Prevention and treatment options for osteoporosis include calcium and vitamin D supplementation, weight-bearing exercise, fall prevention measures, and medication to improve bone density. Early detection and intervention are important to prevent fractures and improve quality of life for those with osteoporosis.
Ovarian cancerOvarian cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the ovaries, the female reproductive organs that produce eggs and hormones. It is the fifth most common cause of cancer-related deaths among women.
Ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages and is often diagnosed at an advanced stage when the cancer has already spread beyond the ovaries.
Symptoms can include abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, and frequent urination.
Treatment typically involves surgery to remove the cancerous tissue, followed by chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy, depending on the stage of the cancer. The prognosis for ovarian cancer depends on various factors, including the stage of the cancer and the age and overall health of the patient.
Genome Stability DNA Repair & Recombination
DNA Damage & Cancer TherapyParkinson's diseaseParkinson’s disease is a chronic progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and coordination. It is caused by the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons in the brain, leading to a shortage of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is essential for regulating movement.
Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease can include tremors, rigidity, slowness of movement, and postural instability, as well as non-motor symptoms such as mood disorders, sleep disturbances, and cognitive impairment.
While there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, treatment options such as medications, deep brain stimulation, and physical therapy can help to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Early detection and intervention are important for maximising treatment effectiveness and managing the progression of the disease.
SarcomaSarcoma is a type of cancer that affects the body’s connective tissues, including bones, cartilage, fat, muscle, and blood vessels.
It is a rare type of cancer, accounting for only about 1% of all adult cancers and 15% of childhood cancers. Sarcomas can develop in any part of the body and can be difficult to diagnose in their early stages, as the symptoms are often nonspecific and can mimic other conditions.
Treatment for sarcoma typically involves surgery to remove the cancerous tissue, followed by radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy, depending on the type and stage of the cancer. The prognosis for sarcoma depends on various factors, including the type, stage, and location of the cancer, as well as the age and overall health of the patient.
StrokeA stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted or reduced, resulting in damage to brain cells. This can be caused by a blockage in a blood vessel (ischemic stroke) or bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke).
Symptoms of stroke can include sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body, confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech, sudden vision problems, and severe headache.
Treatment for stroke depends on the type and severity of the stroke, but may include medication, surgery, and rehabilitation to improve recovery and prevent future strokes. Early detection and rapid medical intervention are crucial to prevent further brain damage and improve outcomes for those who experience a stroke.
Type 1 diabetesType 1 diabetes is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body cannot produce enough insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels, and people with type 1 diabetes require daily insulin injections or the use of an insulin pump to survive.
Symptoms of type 1 diabetes can include increased thirst and urination, fatigue, weight loss, and blurred vision.
While the exact cause of type 1 diabetes is unknown, it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
There is currently no cure for type 1 diabetes, and treatment is focused on managing blood sugar levels through regular monitoring, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and insulin therapy. Early detection and management of type 1 diabetes is crucial to prevent complications such as kidney disease, nerve damage, and vision problems.
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Type 2 diabetesType 2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels due to the body’s inability to use insulin effectively or produce enough insulin. This can be caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, including obesity, physical inactivity, and poor diet.
Symptoms of type 2 diabetes can include increased thirst and urination, fatigue, blurry vision, and slow healing of wounds.
Treatment for type 2 diabetes typically involves lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and regular exercise, and medication to help manage blood sugar levels.
With proper management, people with type 2 diabetes can reduce their risk of developing complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage. Early detection and management of type 2 diabetes is important to prevent long-term health problems.
Metabolic Signalling Diabetes & Metabolic Disease
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