BlinkLab has joined forces with Monash University’s School of Psychological Sciences on its ongoing study aiming to improve diagnoses of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
The MAGNET project is an ongoing large cohort study aiming to enrol 1000 families with children aged 4 to 18 years with only ADHD, only ASD, or comorbid ADHD and ASD. The study employs a family-based design where the parents, affected child and siblings (either affected or unaffected) are all enrolled in the study.
The MAGNET project aims to unravel the complex symptoms of ASD and ADHD and why they overlap in some children. The data uncovered by the project will address several limitations of categorical conceptualisations of these disorders, and by developing better understanding of presentations of ADHD and ASD, lead to better diagnostic models and more personalised support for the children.
BlinkLab has signed on for a two-year partnership with Monash for the project. BlinkLab’s smartphone app will be used to gain data as part of the research.
Lead researcher Professor Mark Bellgrove of the School of Psychological Sciences said he was delighted to collaborate with BlinkLab on the MAGNET study.
“BlinkLab’s innovative digital technologies make it easy for the children and families enrolled in the study to provide critical data,” he said.
“This will hopefully lead to better outcomes for future families and children affected by these two complex and challenging conditions.”