Researchers from both Australia and the Netherlands are investigating the links to a hereditary brain condition that causes microbleeds, stroke, and cognitive impairment.

We know family members from the Netherlands who moved to Australia had this genetic condition. Researchers are looking for individuals with a family history of young onset strokes or brain bleeds, before the age of 65, to take part in this international research being conducted in Perth.

Hereditary cerebral hemorrhage with amyloidosis-Dutch type (HCHWA-D) or Dutch-CAA is a disease of the blood vessels of the brain. During the course of this rare condition, small and larger bleeding may occur, which is visible on an MRI brain scan.

Study Title:  TRACK D-CAA: Tracking the Natural History of Dutch-type Hereditary Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy

We are looking for individuals between 25 and 60 years of age who have Dutch ancestry and who themselves have, or family members have, a history of strokes or brain bleeds before the age of 65 years.

The study will be conducted over two years in both Perth, Western Australia and Leiden, the Netherlands. Our aim is to identify how the disease develops and progresses, as well as which details can be seen in brain imaging and in the cerebrospinal fluid. This information will then be used to inform future clinical drug trials to treat, halt or prevent the condition.

If you register your details below, we would be happy to speak with you further about the study and you may be eligible to participate in this exciting and unique study in Perth. Research volunteers are the backbone of our organization and will help us to not only understand this devastating disease but to find a cure for it.

If you wish to learn more about this study, please contact Dr Samantha Gardener at (08) 6457 0419 or email s.gardener@ecu.edu.au.