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23/11/2009
Irish Scientists Close On Leukaemia Cure
Irish researchers have today revealed results from a recent trials of a new treatment for a rare form of leukaemia which, they say, have proved very promising.
The Galway based team, working with scientists in Dublin have been investigating the drug Tasigna as a possible treatment for sufferers of chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML).
Leader of the study, Professor Michael O'Dwyer, who is consultant haematologist at University College Hospital Galway, said the drug exceeded the therapeutic advantages of existing treatment with fewer side effects.
Around 40 new cases of the blood cancer, affects around one in every, 100,000 people are diagnosed here each year. He said that if the results are confirmed in wider studies, the treatment could be available in around 18 months.
Earlier this month, famous American Basketball star, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, revealed he was being treated for the rare disease.
The now retired 62-year-old, who is the NBA's all-time leading scorer, was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia last December but insists his prognosis is positive and is undergoing treatment, however it could not be confirmed whether Mr Abdul-Jabbar was involved in the ongoing trials.
Last year an Irishman from Achill Island, Michael Lavelle, was the first person in Europe to receive the drug, as part of the Irish trials, involving the University College Hospital Galway, St James's Hospital in Dublin, and Trinity College Dublin.
Some 14 Irish people were involved in the Irish trials and received the drug.
(DW/KMcA)
The Galway based team, working with scientists in Dublin have been investigating the drug Tasigna as a possible treatment for sufferers of chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML).
Leader of the study, Professor Michael O'Dwyer, who is consultant haematologist at University College Hospital Galway, said the drug exceeded the therapeutic advantages of existing treatment with fewer side effects.
Around 40 new cases of the blood cancer, affects around one in every, 100,000 people are diagnosed here each year. He said that if the results are confirmed in wider studies, the treatment could be available in around 18 months.
Earlier this month, famous American Basketball star, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, revealed he was being treated for the rare disease.
The now retired 62-year-old, who is the NBA's all-time leading scorer, was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia last December but insists his prognosis is positive and is undergoing treatment, however it could not be confirmed whether Mr Abdul-Jabbar was involved in the ongoing trials.
Last year an Irishman from Achill Island, Michael Lavelle, was the first person in Europe to receive the drug, as part of the Irish trials, involving the University College Hospital Galway, St James's Hospital in Dublin, and Trinity College Dublin.
Some 14 Irish people were involved in the Irish trials and received the drug.
(DW/KMcA)
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Ireland WeatherToday:A dry day with long spells of sunshine for most, however eastern coasts will see rather more in the way of cloud at times, with just the risk of an odd light morning shower. Mainly light northerly winds. Maximum temperature 13 °C.Tonight:A fine end to the day with some evening sunshine. It remains dry overnight with a touch of frost possible in places, although cloud is expected to increase towards dawn. Minimum temperature 0 °C.
