Turner Syndrome is one of the few genetic diseases that affects women only. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, one set from each parent. One of these pairs determines whether you are male (XY) or female (XX). Turner's is the result of a missing or defective X-chromosome. Because a Y-chromosome cannot function on its own, male embryos missing the X, don't survive. The X-chromosome can survive on it's own, however, and the result is a girl with Turner Syndrome.
Determining the cause of the condition was due to extensive research, and numerous girls and women who participated in early Turner Syndrome clinical trials. Genetic research did not stop there, however. Today, the goal is to identify the genes responsible for the medical problems associated with the disease. These include a webbed neck, short stature, lack of sexual development, non-verbal learning disabilities, heat or kidney defects, and in adult women high blood pressure, diabetes and osteoporosis. Research also evaluates the effects of drugs, hormones in particular, on these conditions, and the most effective methods of administration.
Reasons to Join a Turner Syndrome Clinical Trial
- Become actively involved in your long-term health
- Gain access to new medical interventionsObtain the latest information on the condition and its associated problems
- Receive fully-paid doctors visits and physical exams associated with the study.
One of the most common motives for participating in a Turner Syndrome clinical trial is gaining access to new treatments. Of course, the possibility of being in a group using a placebo may appear to be of little immediate benefit. However, the advice from experts on effectively coping with your condition can be invaluable.
Participants in clinical trials evaluating Turner Syndrome are vital to the continued advances made in the field. With about one in every 2000 live female births affected, your participation in a research study near you will contribute to the improved quality of life for potentially millions of girls in the next decade.
