Dutch Digestive Health Fund invests in scientific research into gastrointestinal diseases. This increases our knowledge, leads to new treatments for gastrointestinal diseases and improves the lives of patients.
How does scientific research work?
Conducting scientific research is a complicated process. Research often takes years. Scientists work very precisely and meticulously. That is the only way to draw conclusions. Each study contributes to new knowledge. Many studies are needed before something can be said to be scientifically proven. That is why it often takes a long time before a new treatment or medication is put into practice.
Participating in scientific research
Scientific research often requires test subjects. These are healthy people or patients who voluntarily participate in research for new treatments or medications.
Participating in scientific research can be beneficial because you may receive a new treatment that can reduce your symptoms or that can help you get better (faster). Participation is also valuable to others because you are contributing to research into new treatments, for example. There can also be disadvantages to participating, such as the risks you run because it is a new treatment, possible side effects and the time and effort you put into it.
The Central Committee on Research Involving Human Subjects (CCMO) ensures the protection of subjects participating in medical research. The website of the CCMO provides all the important information regarding participation in research. Additional information can be found on the website of the Dutch government.
Why does scientific research take so long?
Conducting scientific research is a complicated process that often takes several years. Scientific research must be carried out carefully in order to draw conclusions. There are many different types of research, all of which have advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, each study contributes to increasing knowledge about a particular subject. You need a lot of studies to be able to say that something is reliable and has been scientifically proven. That is why it often takes a long time before a new treatment or certain medication can be applied in regular treatments.
We support new studies every year
Every year, Dutch Digestive Health Fund supports four to six scientific studies. This is possible thanks to the contributions of our donors. The choice of scientific studies is made very carefully. We let doctors and scientists help decide, but also patients and patient associations. The choice always puts the interests of the patient with gastrointestinal diseases first.