Previous projects have included the LEAP (Lupus Erythematosus And Psychotherapy)  which is now complete and a current SMILE study - Study of Methotrexate In Lupus Erythematosus Incidence of Malignancy in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus.

CaNIOS research projects are critical to finding better ways of treatment and improving lupus patients’ quality of life. Unfortunately, there is a critical shortage of a stable funding source for this project.  A private donor came forth with a substantial donation if matching funds could be found. Project Leader Dr. Paul Fortin of Toronto, approached Lupus Canada for help.  As research funds were already committed on behalf of Lupus Canada, a call went out to all the Canadian Lupus Member Organizations for help.  LSA was pleased to answer the call.

At the June Board meeting, the Lupus Society of Alberta  donated $5000 to the CaNIOS Research project.  

President Rosemary Church states, “the Board hopes LSA will be able to continue providing similar support in coming years.”

“This is an opportunity to work together as lupus organizations and make the most out of our research dollars,” stated Cathy Jackson, the LSA’s Lupus Canada Delegate, who has been a part of the Lupus Canada Research Committee for the past two years.  “Regionalization is not practical when applied to lupus research as the lupus patient base is too small and lupus research dollars are limited,” she goes on to say.

This is just the start of a three year project and we hope to be able to continue our support.  Future projects being considered for CaNIOS includes genetics and the impact of early cardiovascular disease.

For these studies, international collaboration will be required.  CaNIOS is in position to become a model for the development of collaborative research in SLE. Date: 8/21/2001
Source: Lupus Courier