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Disability Association

News

Stem cell first for Parkinson's

US researchers have for the first time injected human stem cells into monkeys with Parkinson's symptoms, seen as a key step in the fight to find a cure. The stem cells, which have been injected into rodents in the past, initially stopped the monkeys' damaged brain cells from deteriorating. The primates' condition did however start to slide after four months, the study in the PNAS journal said. Stem cells offer great hope for cures, but a breakthrough remains elusive.

12 Jun 2007
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NHS to review arthritis drugs use

The NHS treatment watchdog has agreed to review its guidance on the use of three drugs for rheumatoid arthritis. The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) will look again at Humira, Enbrel and Remicade. Last year it ruled if a patient did not respond to one of the drugs - from a class known as anti-TNF medicines - they should not get another. But various charities, manufacturers and the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) appealed against that decision. The drugs will now undergo a further review of their NHS use.

12 Jun 2007
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Call to boost disabled employment

Providing disabled people with the skills to compete in the job market could deliver significant economic growth, according to a new report. The Social Market Foundation (SMF) says that this could amount to a £35bn boost over 30 years. The foundation's chief economist, Stephen Evans, says the gains are potentially massive and the cost of inaction is "mounting by the day".

12 Jun 2007
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Fears over child epilepsy drugs

Urgent safety studies are needed for newer anti-epilepsy drugs that are being increasingly prescribed for children, say UK researchers. The British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology report says prescriptions have risen five-fold in 13 years. Yet the drugs' long-term safety has not been established, say the researchers.

12 Jun 2007
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Every vote counts: United Response launches campaign to engage people with learning disabilities in the democratic process

United Response, the charity creating opportunities with people with learning disabilities or mental health needs, is launching a campaign today to make the democratic process more accessible to the thousands of people with learning disabilities in England who are missing out on the opportunity to vote. The campaign will be funded by the Electoral Commission, under its programme to encourage greater participation among disabled people.

10 Jun 2007
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