Research area: Stem Cell Medicine > Cancer Therapies

Why this program is important

While survival rates for childhood cancers now approach 85%, many young people still experience serious side effects (adverse drug reactions) from chemotherapy and supportive care medicines. These may include short term toxicities such as nausea or mouth sores, as well as long term effects like heart problems or hearing loss.

For some, medicines may be less effective, leading to the need for multiple medications to manage a single symptom, such as nausea or pain. In other cases, reduced treatment effectiveness can increase the risk of cancer relapse.

Together these challenges are distressing and may have lasting impacts on health and quality of life.

Pharmacogenomics (PGx) is the study of how a person's genes affect the way medicines work for them. By understanding this better, we can tailor treatments to each child's unique genetic make-up, helping to reduce side effects and improve recovery.

Our project focus

Through AUS-POND, we are building a national network and research program to understand and prevent these treatment-related side effects. Our work focuses on:

1. Creating a national database: Bringing together information from across Australia.
2. Building a national biobank: Collecting samples and data from children with cancer to study how genetics affect drug safety and effectiveness.
3. Connecting researchers and clinicians: Partnering with Australian and international networks to assess how personalised medicine can reduce treatment side effects. 
4. Supporting implementation: Providing education and resources for healthcare professionals and families to help bring pharmacogenomics into everyday clinical care.

Information for participants

Our Consumer Advisory Group (CAG)

The AUS-POND Consumer Advisory Group (CAG) ensures that the voices of young people, families, and carers are central to our work. 

We're looking for members from a range of ages, backgrounds, and locations across Australia.

Who can join?

• If you are 18 years or over AND
• Parents or carers of children treated for cancer in Australia OR
• Young people or adults who were treated for cancer before the age of 18.

No scientific background or prior experience is needed.

Get involved 

You can contribute in different ways, depending on your interests and availability.

• Join the CAG: Meetings every three months (1hr to 1.5hr).
• Join the Steering Committee (two lead CAG members): Meetings every three months (1hr to 1.5hr).
• Join the Working Groups: Monthly meetings (1hr) to discuss specific topics.
  
  

Register your interest

You can contact us below to find our more or register.

Register your interest

CAG support and remuneration

• The CAG is chaired by an independent international facilitator who ensures meetings are open, safe, and inclusive. 
• All members will be supported to take part through introductory sessions and plain-English information and support. 
• We welcome parents and young people who have no prior experience of being involved in a Consumer Advisory Group before, as well as those who have. 
• No prior knowledge of pharmacogenomics (PGx) is required.  
• CAG members will be paid for their time in recognition of their valuable lived experience. 
  
  

Contact us

For more information on AUS-POND please reach out.

Beth Williams and Roxanne Dyas
Consumer Advisory Group Liaison Officers
Email:  show email address
Phone: show phone number