NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Fat Disorders Research Society is pleased to announce it is sponsoring up to three Fellowships for Lipedema and Dercum’s Disease. Each grant is worth up to $98,000.
Leading USA fat disorders researcher Karen L. Herbst, M.D., PhD states, “This first ever funding for research on Lipedema and Dercum's Disease will begin to help us understand why adipose (fat) tissue develops in the absence of obesity, and why it cannot be lost by lifestyle changes such as exercise and diet. This research funding can help not only millions of men and women affected by Lipedema and Dercum's Disease, but will increase our understanding of the complex nature of adipose tissue itself, and excite the next generation of research investigation into the area of adipose tissue disorders.”
Lipedema is an underdiagnosed condition of abnormally accumulated fat on the lower body causing swelling and pain. Lipedema may be misdiagnosed as, or coexist with, lymphedema, obesity, venous disease and Dercum’s Disease, but it is distinct and must be treated as a separate condition. This research may lead to better diagnostic protocols and improved treatment. Lipedema likely has genetic, lymphatic, and inflammatory components and therefore we are seeking related research in physiology, genomics, immunology and endocrinology. Raising awareness of this painful and sometimes debilitating disorder among researchers and healthcare personnel is a top priority.
Dercum’s Disease is a rare disorder characterized by multiple, painful growths consisting of fatty tissue (lipomas). Some current research indicates the disease may be auto-immune in nature, although a metabolic component has also been proposed. Laura Baker, Dercum’s patient, says, “We need more healthcare professionals to take an interest in this rare disorder and these fellowships are an exciting new development for Dercum’s patients.”
Since 1998, the Lymphatic Education & Research Network has been looking for answers for the millions of people who suffer from lymphedema and lymphatic disease. We thank LE&RN for participating with us in this historic partnership. William Repicci, Executive Director, reports, “With aligned missions, our two organizations are collaborating to fund research to break new ground.”
The fellowships are administered by The Medical Foundation division of Health Resources in Action. To apply and learn more please visit tmfgrants.org/LERN-FDRS.
About FDRS
Founded in 2009, the Fat Disorders Research Society is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit whose mission is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all people affected by adipose tissue disorders through research, education, advocacy and collaboration.
FDRS provides valuable educational resources for the millions of people who suffer from Lipedema, Dercum’s Disease and other fat disorders. FDRS fully supports research that can enrich the medical community's understanding of adipose tissue disorders. For more information about fat disorders or the Fat Disorders Research Society, please visit www.fatdisorders.org.
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