Endless POFibilities -- April 2001

RESEARCH REPORT

Why Women Get POF?: Baylor Study UPDATE

Earlier this year we announced a new research study beginning at Baylor University in Houston, Texas. The primary investigator is Dr. Michael Heard. Some of you have already contacted Dr. Heard about participating (you do not have to live near or visit Houston to participate). Here is a report from him on the progress of the study:

The Internet response has been outstanding since the research study was posted. We are still actively recruiting patients. There has been a delay in sending out information because we needed to renew our consent that had been in place from previous years. We should receive IRB approval in early March and move forward. We will be sending out some information soon to update all participants.
So far Baylor has recruited over 50 patients in just over a month’s time. We have even received inquires from 5 patients outside the

United States. Collecting information from a lot of POF patients has revealed some interesting findings. Many patients have family members which are also affected or have infertility, others have autoimmune problems such as thyroid disease and diabetes, while another subset of POF patients may have endometriosis diagnosed in the past. A common theme among patients is the time it takes to be accurately diagnosed. There are many different presentations ranging from irregular cycles and hot flashes to infertility with amenorrhea.

More information will be collected over time as the study progresses. We will continue to keep patients informed of any new developments.

I am impressed with the knowledge of the POF patients in general that I have interacted with so far. Most are very educated about their condition and want to learn more. There are important issues of concern such as hormone replacement therapy to prevent future bone loss and maintain health or the latest options to treat infertility.

I look forward to continuing our enrollment and keeping the IPOFA Support Group up-to-date on our current research. Thank you again for allowing me to be part of such a fine organization.

Sincerely,
Michael J. Heard, M.D., F.A.C.O.G.
Baylor College of Medicine
POF Research Coordinator

To participate in this study:
Contact Dr. Michael Heard,
Baylor University:

Email:
mjheardmd@pol.net

Phone:
713-798-7942

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