MJD Research

Research is on going!

Scientists world-wide continue to strive to find treatment and a cure for MJD;eventually leading to prevention of Machado Joseph Disease. Please see Ataxia MJD Research Project

Genetic Marker

Persons at-risk or those who suspect they may be affected from MJD can now have their blood tested to see if they carry the defective gene. There is also suggested protocol before genetic testing takes place. IJDF can help assist you in locating who to contact for this test.

Prepared by
Office of Scientific and Health Reports
National Institute of Neurological and Communicative Disorders and Stroke
Bethesda, Maryland 20892

Where are families found with Machado Joseph Disease?

It was first thought that MJD was only found in individuals of Portuguese ancestry, but today MJD has spread world-wide. MJD can be found in the United States, Azores Islands, Portugal, Brazil, France, Germany, England, Canada, Japan, China, Italy, India, Angola, Spain, Holland, Finland, Ukraine, Suriname, Belgium, Mexico, Macau, Syria, Taiwan, Australia, Turkey, and Israel. MJD is being discovered in other parts of the world as well.

Where to get help

In California there is the GHPP Genetic Handicap Persons Program this program can financially help with medical care, medical equipment, drug prescriptions and support. In addition through-out the USA each state has individual support.

World wide each country has their own protocol in helping MJD patients and their families.

Please contact IJDF for more information in locating a program that may help assist your needs.