The Micro-structural Basis Of Bone Loss And Fragility After Menopause: A Longitudinal Co-twin Control Study
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$873,950.00
Summary
Every woman becomes postmenopausal. Not all lose bone or sustain fractures after menopause. We will identify women who lose bone and those who don't and so identify women at risk for fracture so that they can be targeted for treatment and identify those who do not need to be treated. This will be done by measuring bone structure and how strong the bone is using a new, safe, quick technology that can be used in clinical practice
Menopause is one of the important risk factors for bone loss, structural decay and bone fragility. We aim to quantify the biochemical, microstructural and biomechanical basis of loss of bone strength during and after menopause. A cohort of 324 pairs of female-female twins aged 25 to 75 years old will be followed up for up to 9 years. Defining the structural basis of bone fragility provides a rational means to identifying women at risk for fracture.
Australia has an ageing population and women spend around one third of their lives after menopause. Optimising physical and emotional health at menopause is a national health priority, and improving the health of women will improve health for the community. This research program is targeted at improving physical and mental health for midlife and older women. Findings will be translated into changes in policy and practice which improve the lives of women in Australia and worldwide
My research focus is the physical and mental health of Australian women at midlife. Over the next 5 years I will address the management of severe menopausal symptoms, midlife depression and the neglected health needs of women during and after cancer treatment, organ transplant and severe persistent mental illness. I will also investigate novel treatment approaches for menopausal symptoms. I will work closely with relevant professional and community groups in planning, implementation and translat ....My research focus is the physical and mental health of Australian women at midlife. Over the next 5 years I will address the management of severe menopausal symptoms, midlife depression and the neglected health needs of women during and after cancer treatment, organ transplant and severe persistent mental illness. I will also investigate novel treatment approaches for menopausal symptoms. I will work closely with relevant professional and community groups in planning, implementation and translation to ensure my research addresses their needs.Read moreRead less
The Regulation Of Aromatase In The Context Of Obesity And Postmenopausal Breast Cancer.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$436,601.00
Summary
Current hormone therapy for breast cancer using inhibitors of oestrogen formation results in serious side-effects including bone loss, joint pain and possibly cognitive issues. Our current work is aimed at understanding how oestrogen formation is regulated with the goal of developing breast-specific inhibitors of oestrogen formation to obviate these problems. In addition, this work is aimed at devising therapeutic intervention to break the linkage between obesity and breast cancer.
The Menstrual Cycle, Menopause And Gender Specific Health Needs Of Women With Complex Medical And Psychiatric Conditions.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$149,982.00
Summary
The great advances in medical science mean that women are living longer, sometimes with very complex conditions.The aim of this study is to determine how common women’s health issues are in women who have had a lung or bone marrow transplant and in women with severe mental illness. The study will involve face to face interview with women and then a survey of a larger number of women. The study will help improve the care and quality of life of women who already face significant health challenges.