“A Giant Step Forward”: Treatment Capable of Slowing Huntington’s Disease

An experimental gene therapy, known as AMT-130, is capable of slowing the progression of Huntington’s disease.

“It’s a giant step forward,” Sarah Tabrizi, a member of the treatment team at University College London, told New Scientist.

“[The success we saw in the late-stage trial earlier this year] tells you that Huntington’s disease has the potential to be treatable. This gives us a huge window of opportunity.”

Huntington’s disease occurs due to a genetic mutation that, over time, kills brain cells — leading to difficulties with movement, thinking, and mood.

AMT-130, developed by biotechnology company uniQure, targets the abnormal proteins by carrying genetic instructions to brain cells, directing them to make a molecule that blocks their production.

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Disability Benefits for Huntington’s Disease in Canada

Huntington’s disease and other forms of dementia can have a profound impact on an individual’s ability to perform their job duties.

For Canadians who can’t work, short-term disability (STD) and long-term disability (LTD) benefits can provide a crucial financial lifeline.

How These Benefits Help

• STD: Provides temporary financial support for individuals unable to perform their job duties.
• LTD: Offers income replacement for individuals unable to return to work for an extended period of time.

To qualify for STD or LTD benefits, medical documentation is essential to demonstrate how your condition prevents you from working.

Sadly, insurance companies often deny legitimate LTD claims — including in cases involving Huntington’s disease — adding unnecessary stress to an already difficult situation.

SEE ALSO
• Medical Conditions that Qualify for Disability in Canada
• Denied LTD? Seek Legal Advice Before Appealing the Decision
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📺 WATCH: Next Steps for Canadians After a Disability Claim is Denied

Claim Denied? Contact Us

If your insurance company prevented you from accessing disability benefits for Huntington’s disease, or another medical condition, connect with an experienced disability lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP.

Our compassionate team regularly resolves issues involving STD, LTD, critical illness, life insurance, and mortgage insurance claims.

We’ve helped countless Canadians secure the compensation they’re owed. Contact us today for a FREE disability consultation.