We are excited to share journal publications like this one resulting from FORWARD data. There are many more papers currently in development, and the future for Fragile X syndrome research is bright as more data is gathered.
Clinicians’ Experiences with the Fragile X Clinical and Research Consortium
Abstract
The objectives of the study were to assess the attitudes and experiences of clinicians involved in a consortium of clinics serving people with fragile X-associated disorders to gauge satisfaction with the consortium and its efforts to improve quality of life for patients and the community. An internet survey was sent to 26 fragile X (FX) clinic directors participating in the Fragile X Clinical and Research Consortium (FXCRC).
Respondents were asked to complete 19 questions on consortium performance and outcomes relevant for their own clinic. The response rate was 84% (22/26), with two surveys providing incomplete data. Assistance with clinic establishment, opportunities for research collaborations, and access to colleagues and information were highly valued. Approximately 76% of clinicians reported improvements in patient care and 60% reported an increase in patient services. There was a 57% increase in participation in a FX-related clinical trial among clinics since joining the FXCRC (24% vs. 81%). Overall, respondents reported primarily positive experiences from participation in the FXCRC.
Common suggestions for improvement included additional financial support and increased utilization of collected patient data for research purposes. Additionally, a Clinic Services Checklist was administered annually to examine changes in services offered over time. There were several important changes regarding the provision of services by clinics, often with multiple clinics changing with respect to a service. In conclusion, the FXCRC has led to the establishment and sustainment of fragile X clinics in the U.S., fostered cooperation among fragile X clinicians, and provided clinics with a platform to share recommendations and best practices to maximize quality of life for their patients and the overall fragile X community. The results from the survey and checklist also provide suggestions to strengthen the FXCRC and enhance future collaborations among FXCRC members.
Liu, J. A., Hagerman, R. J., Miller, R. M., Craft, L. T., Finucane, B., Tartaglia, N., Berry-Kravis, E. M., Sherman, S. L., Kidd, S. A., & Cohen, J. (2016). Clinicians’ experiences with the fragile X clinical and research consortium. American journal of medical genetics. Part A, 170(12), 3138–3143. https://doi.org/10.1002/ajmg.a.37948
About the FORWARD-MARCH Registry & Database
Since 2012, the CDC has funded four FORWARD Fragile X studies to expand understanding of Fragile X syndrome. The NFXF has been coordinating study efforts since the beginning and has been vital in ensuring its success.
FORWARD-MARCH is the next step and will collect more detailed information from participants to better understand FXS and improve the lives of children and adolescents with FXS and the lives of their families.
Below are more journal publications resulting from FORWARD data.
more from forward
The Future of Fragile X Syndrome
Research Summary // The present challenge is to move from accurate diagnosis to public health action for FXS, requiring better understanding of the natural history of FXS.
Predictors of Attendance at Fragile X Clinics
Research Summary // Samples showed that children who attended Fragile X clinics were mostly male, high-school aged or younger, and white, non-Hispanic.
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