Champion Insights Begins Enrollment for Critical ALS Study
Nationwide initiative to analyze genetic, biological, and environmental factors linked to elevated ALS risk.
Champion Insights has officially launched a significant research study focusing on why elite athletes, military veterans, and first responders experience much higher rates of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) — potentially double compared to the general population.
Understanding ALS Risk Factors
The study aims to enroll 500 participants from across the country without requiring a central location. Participants contribute from home using a convenient in-home blood collection service and online clinical surveys.
Champion Insights is focused on uncovering biological indicators of increased susceptibility to ALS in these high-performing groups. Researchers will examine genetic aspects related to intense physical exertion and lipid processing while also considering lifestyle and environmental factors.
The outcomes generated from this research hold the potential to answer critical questions about ALS risk and could lead to significant developments in the field. By identifying new biomarkers and therapeutic targets, the study could benefit the entire ALS community.
Pioneering Participants Demanding Change
Prominent ALS advocate and former NFL player Steve Gleason is the first participant, providing his sample to kick off the study. Gleason, alongside an elite group of individuals with exceptional backgrounds, including:
- Matt Bellina (retired U.S. Navy Lt. Commander)
- Kerry Goode (former NFL player, founder of the Goode Foundation)
- Tim Green (former NFL player, founder of Tackle ALS)
- Andrea Lytle Peet (elite long-distance runner and founder of Team Drea)
- Johnny Rodriguez (athlete and coach, founder of Athletes vs. ALS)
- Eric Stevens (former NFL player and firefighter, founder of axeALS)
They, too, have committed to providing their samples through the ALS Therapy Development Institute's ALS Research Collaborative.
A New Approach to ALS Research
"Years ago, we envisioned creating the most thorough and accessible ALS research endeavor, and we achieved it collectively,” Gleason expressed. “Now, with Champion Insights, I am honored to play a vital role as the first participant. This initiative opens doors for high achievers who face ALS at elevated rates to contribute from home at their convenience, potentially leading to impactful insights about this condition. We aspire to improve understandings and treatment possibilities for everyone."
Champion Insights is a collaborative effort brought to life by Answer ALS and Augie's Quest to Cure ALS, with the research headed by ALS TDI in coordination with OnPoint Scientific. These organizations are steered by Fernando Vieira, M.D., CEO and Chief Scientific Officer of ALS TDI, Clare Durrett, Managing Director of Answer ALS, and Shannon Shryne, Co-founder and President of Augie's Quest. To enhance governance and engagement, Champion Insights plans to establish Scientific and Patient Advisory boards for providing ongoing methodology guidance, ethical considerations, and the significance of the research endeavors.
Essential Funding for the Research Initiative
To guarantee adequate representation of firefighters within this essential study, the project has secured $100,000 from axeALS, an organization founded by Eric Stevens following his own ALS diagnosis, alongside a $200,000 grant from the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA). This long-standing association with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) highlights a mutual goal of advancing research for neuromuscular diseases, ALS included.
“People who challenge their bodies vigorously have been known to face heightened risk for ALS,” Vieira noted. “Champion Insights shifts our perspective from mere statistics to the very biology of ALS. By providing our data collection tools to 500 high performers, we have the chance to compile a rich dataset that was previously unreachable, helping to identify specific genetic and environmental markers that may lead to groundbreaking treatments.”
For more information regarding participation eligibility for Champion Insights or to enroll, please visit the Champion Insights website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the goal of the Champion Insights study?
The study seeks to understand why athletes, military veterans, and first responders have higher rates of ALS and discover potential biological factors contributing to this risk.
Who can participate in the study?
The study aims to include elite athletes, military members, and first responders, encouraging participation from individuals with these backgrounds.
How will participants contribute to the study?
Participants will provide samples through at-home blood collection and complete online surveys regarding their health and lifestyle.
Why is this study significant for the ALS community?
It offers the potential to identify new biomarkers and therapies, which could greatly assist all individuals battling ALS.
How can one learn more about participation?
Interested individuals can visit the Champion Insights website to find detailed information about enrollment and eligibility.
