Patients with neurological disorders affecting speech, balance and coordination will get greater access to specialist services and research.
The new Oxford Ataxia Centre, launched at the John Radcliffe Hospital in December 2009, is one of only three specialist centres in the UK. It has been granted formal accreditation by Ataxia UK, the national charity for people affected by ataxia.
Dr Andrea Nemeth, Consultant and Honorary Senior Lecturer in Clinical Genetics said: ‘This new centre is a fantastic development for Oxford. Bringing together treatment and research under one roof provides better care for current patients and a greater understanding to help patients in the future.’
Notes to editors:
What is Ataxia? Neurological disorders affecting speech, balance and coordination. Many ataxias are inherited genetically and are progressive. Ataxi may also be a symptom of other conditions such as multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy.
How can it be treated? Unfortunately there is no cure however, there are a range of treatments to help ease the symptoms including; medications, speech and physiotherapy.
The Oxford Ataxia Centre is looking for patients from across the UK to take part in a new study into Cerebellar Ataxia. For more information email clare.camidge@ouh.nhs.uk.
Dr Andrea Nemeth is part-funded by the Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, which supports research that makes a difference to patient care in partnership with the University of Oxford and the ORH NHS Trust.