The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Foundation has released a report identifying future research priorities for the study of equine colic, including investigations to improve the veterinarian’s ability to diagnosis, treat, and prevent the disease. The report was created by the Research Priorities Panel, a group of leading researchers that met during the 10^th International Equine Colic Research Symposium, which took place July 26-28, 2011, in Indianapolis, Ind.

The report is now available online. Each section of the report includes a list of diseases or fundamental problems requiring research. The sections are prioritized with an outline of the needed research and funding priorities.

The symposium, alternating every three years between Europe and North America, is designed to bring together leading researchers, practitioners, residents, and graduate students to share knowledge about equine colic, the leading cause of premature death in horses.  As with previous symposiums, this meeting facilitated the exchange of new information about colic among investigators while stimulating new collaborations and ideas for research projects.

Held in conjunction with the AAEP’s 2011 educational meeting “Focus on Colic,” the symposium featured 45 oral presentations and 72 poster presentations.  After the symposium, a panel of researchers met to answer specific questions about the direction and cost of future colic research