On today’s episode, we sit down with Dr. Matthew Benson, a clinician-scientist and assistant professor in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the University of Alberta. Dr. Benson specializes in inherited retinal diseases and is dedicated to patient advocacy for those with rare eye conditions.

Dr. Benson’s journey spans extensive medical training, including a subspecialty fellowship in ocular genetics at the National Eye Institute in the U.S., where he worked with world-leading experts. His clinical practice focuses on pediatric and adult patients with inherited eye diseases, as well as adult strabismus surgery.

Beyond patient care, Dr. Benson leads a translational research laboratory investigating disease mechanisms in inherited retinal and macular disorders. His team uses patient-derived stem cells to advance potential treatments and is actively involved in clinical trials and patient registries through organizations like the Foundation Fighting Blindness and Fighting Blindness Canada.

Join us as we explore the cutting-edge research, clinical advancements, and advocacy efforts shaping the future of inherited retinal disease treatment.

With your hosts, Dr. Heather O'Donnell and Dr. Hady Saheb.

Written and directed by Kim Tytler.

Produced by John Allaire of Allaire Strategic Works.

The EyeCan Podcast is made possible by support from Bayer.

Show notes

Fighting Blindness Canada Viewpoint
https://www.fightingblindness.ca/viewpoint/ 
In-person, virtual and hybrid events designed to educate on the latest vision research, ask questions, and connect with other people who are living with a blinding eye disease.

Fighting Blindness Canada – clinic trials
https://www.fightingblindness.ca/clinical-trials/

Dr. Ian MacDonald
https://apps.ualberta.ca/directory/person/macdonal

Patient Advocacy for Rare Diseases

https://www.raredisorders.ca/

https://www.fightingblindness.ca/?utm_source=chatgpt.com 

https://rarediseases.org/organizations/ 

Government of Canada Genetic Non-Discrimination Act
An Act to prohibit and prevent genetic discrimination
https://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/annualstatutes/2017_3/page-1.html

EyeCan – Genetic Testing with Dr. Sarah Chorfi
https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/eyecan-season-4-episode-6-genetic-testing-with-guest/id1541770048?i=1000650372121

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