LBC is the only dedicated funder of haematology research and continues to sponsor two research groups, the Leukaemia Study Group and the Bone Marrow Transplant Study Group.
One of the cornerstones of our ‘vision to cure’ has been the dedicated research grants we have provided for more than 30 years. To date, LBC has funded more than $2 million in research into blood cancers and related conditions. In addition, we have funded summer research projects for students and travel grants for scientists, clinicians, nurses and laboratory staff to attend national and international scientific meetings.
The involvement of LBC in research will ultimately lead to benefits and improved outcomes for New Zealand patients. There are also many indirect benefits, including the education of medical and nursing staff looking after patients with blood disorders, support of the haematology research environment, retention of scientist and clinicians in New Zealand, and the encouragement of young scientists and clinicians to consider a career in haematology and haematology research.
In addition, LBC supports the Leukaemia Study Group and the Bone Marrow Transplant Study Group, which provide valuable forums for haematologists around the country. The focus is primarily an update on opportunities to participate in clinical trials and at times cover other topics of importance to patients and treatment, such as access to medicines. Below are examples of some our funding.
In August 2014 we established New Zealand’s first Leukaemia & Blood Cancer Research Unit in collaboration with the University of Auckland. The unit is already undertaking ground-breaking research into the causes and treatment of blood cancers and related conditions. There are opportunities for local research using the Auckland Regional Tissue Bank to which we also provide funding. It is part of an integrated cancer centre at the University of Auckland in conjunction with the Auckland District Health Board.