I am a Research Fellow at the University of Exeter, working in the area of haemochromatosis, and also a keen runner.

Haemochromatosis is the most common genetic condition in the UK, causing the body to absorb too much iron from the diet. This can build up to toxic levels in the body organs leading to arthritis, diabetes, liver disease and liver cancer. Haemochromatosis iron overload is preventable if diagnosed early and easily treated by having blood taken. Research from our group at Exeter has show that despite the significant morbidity hereditary haemochromatosis can cause, it is often diagnosed late or misdiagnosed.

Haemochromatosis UK (HUK) are a fantastic charity, providing much needed support and information to patients and their families. HUK help to educate both people affected and health professionals, raise public awareness, and encourage research of this debilitating genetic condition.

Janice Atkins