Research
Keratoconus Australia supports research and studies into keratoconus, treatments and management of the disease conducted around the country. It does not conduct its own research.
A database developed by the Association including basic information about members' experiences with keratoconus has proved invaluable in assisting researchers quickly identify and contact large numbers of potential candidates for these studies. All personal information is provided only on an anonymous basis or with the consent of the person involved.
The Association has also provided financial support for certain research projects deemed critical for the welfare of people with keratoconus.
Since its creation, the Association has supported research being conducted in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Brisbane. These studies include:
- The creation of the world's first registry to track outcomes of corneal crosslinking procedures. The Save Sight Keratoconus Registry was developed by Save Sight Institute in Sydney in collaboration with the Centre for Eye Research Australia. Keratoconus Australia and its members have provided significant funding to launch and publicize this important initiative which is now attracting support from ophthalmologists around the world.
- The world's first randomized clinical study of corneal collagen crosslinking being conducted by the Centre for Eye Research Australia;
- Development of the world's first keratoconus-specific quality of life questionnaire called the Keratoconus Outcomes Research Questionnaire (KORQ), in conjunction with Flinders University. The KORQ has now been validated and is attracting interest from keratoconus research groups around the world. It is also being used by the Save Sight Institute's Australian Crosslinking Registry.
- Research into Genes in Keratoconus and Myopia being conducted by the Centre for Eye Research Australia
- The inheritance of keratoconus in families genetic study conducted by the Centre for Eye Research Australia and the Melbourne Excimer Laser Group;
- An Economic Impact of Keratoconus study by the Centre for Eye Research Australia
- A study into Intraocular pressure and corneal shape conducted by the QUT Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation;
- Research by Flinders University into Understanding the Genetic Causes of Corneal Disease
- An evidential review of keratoconus surgery also being conducted by Flinders University.
Please contact Keratoconus Australia if you would like to support our efforts to promote research into keratoconus.