AVA takes a keen interest on asbestos disease research and stays in touch with asbestos support groups around Australia.
The Asbestos Diseases Research Institute is located in the Bernie Banton Centre on the Concord Hospital campus in New South Wales.It was established by the Asbestos Diseases Research Foundation (ADRF), a charitable, not-for-profit foundation dedicated to assist and support the research efforts of ADRI into asbestos-related diseases.
Before his death in 2007, Bernie Banton campaigned vigorously for the rights of those who suffered, like himself, from asbestos-related diseases. This state-of-the-art research facility was named in his honour and consists of six wet laboratories and two dry laboratories.
ADRI's research focuses on mesothelioma and is threefold:to find a less invasive method of diagnosis, to use 3D modelling to understand the disease mechanism, and to trial new therapeutic options.
Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose and often the patient is required to have a lung biopsy – an invasive and painful procedure.ADRI is working on a blood test to provide a less invasive method of diagnosis.
The 3D modelling gives a cell more closely resembling an actual tumour so that the biology of mesothelioma can be tested with increased accuracy.
ADRI is testing the potential of microRNA combination therapy for immunotherapy and chemotherapy in mesothelioma patients.
Further information on current research projects can be found on the ADRI website.The website also has information for mesothelioma patients, including details of their Mesothelioma Support Coordinators who work with established professional agencies, health professionals and local communities across NSW to provide current evidence-based clinical information and support.
photo: Ken Takahashi (ADRI), Victoria Keena (ADRI), Lesley Shears (AVA SA), Joanne Roseman (ADRI)