Researchers: Russell Hays (KAMSC/ James Cook University); Prof Robyn McDermott (JCU)
Funding:
Project summary: Aboriginal communities in Northern Australia have a high prevalence of infection with the soil transmitted gut worm Strongyloides Stercoralis. In addition the incidence of type 2 Diabetes mellitus is high in these communities. Some studies performed overseas suggest that there may be a relationship between worm infections and diabetes, and the coexistence of these two conditions in this community provides a unique opportunity to study the possible interactions between the two illnesses.
It is now possible to accurately diagnose Strongyloides infection using an ELISA blood test, and treat it adequately using oral Ivermectin according to the best practice guidelines available. Treatment using this regimen has been underway in the Kutjungka clinics for the past year. This project aims to evaluate the effectiveness of this treatment regimen in the Kutjungka clinics with particular reference to the relationship between Strongyloides and T2DM, and the effect that treatment has on the control of T2DM.
Progress: Ongoing