Multidisciplinary Translational Research To Address Social Disparities In Osteoporosis: Understanding The Social Context Of Biological Mechanisms
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$419,180.00
Summary
Osteoporosis (OP) prevalence is greater for disadvantaged groups, as are less healthy lifestyles. Whilst reasons for this social gradient of OP are unknown, some biological phenomena are influenced by lifestyle factors. I will provide novel evidence about biological mechanisms underlying the social gradient of OP (epigenetics), and, using that information, engage disadvantaged communities in multidisciplinary discussions to inform effective public health interventions (community engagement).
Determining The Role Of Oxytocin And Associated Analogues In Treatments For Social Dysfunction
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$466,492.00
Summary
This proposal develops a research hub to study, understand and develop innovative treatments for social difficulties observed across mental health conditions. It identifies treatment targets to improve social difficulties, determines who is likely to respond to these targets, and shows how these benefits can be tracked in patients. To achieve these goals, this proposal places this laboratory at the centre of broad international and collaborative research, facilitating innovative training and pra ....This proposal develops a research hub to study, understand and develop innovative treatments for social difficulties observed across mental health conditions. It identifies treatment targets to improve social difficulties, determines who is likely to respond to these targets, and shows how these benefits can be tracked in patients. To achieve these goals, this proposal places this laboratory at the centre of broad international and collaborative research, facilitating innovative training and practice within Australian society.Read moreRead less
Improving Communication About Immunisation Through Social Sciences Research
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$415,219.00
Summary
Vaccination is one of the greatest public health acheivements of the last century. Yet new threats to vaccine programs arise as diseases become less visible. Waning public confidence in immunisation and specific vaccine scares continue to threaten programs globally. This research will help to improve our understanding of why people do and don't immunise and the role communication can play. It will develop and test novel interventions to address public concerns and assist health professionals in ....Vaccination is one of the greatest public health acheivements of the last century. Yet new threats to vaccine programs arise as diseases become less visible. Waning public confidence in immunisation and specific vaccine scares continue to threaten programs globally. This research will help to improve our understanding of why people do and don't immunise and the role communication can play. It will develop and test novel interventions to address public concerns and assist health professionals in the way they communicate vaccine risk and benefit.Read moreRead less
Ensuring Local Capability In Complex Systems Methodology To Inform Infectious Disease Policy
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$464,847.00
Summary
Influenza is an example of an infectious disease that remains a global challenge, causing annual outbreaks and disruptive pandemics. My group works with basic scientists and social researchers to understand the way influenza and other infections spread, and how drugs and vaccines protect. I have built local capability in computer simulation modeling that brings this rich body of evidence together, to promote understanding of disease and inform health policy in Australia and internationally.
The Ethics And Politics Of Pharmaceutical Innovation And Translation
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$476,728.00
Summary
I lead a research program on the ethics and politics of pharmaceutical innovation and translation: how medicines are developed, regulated, funded and taken up into practice. I aim to help policymakers to deal with conflicts among stakeholders. Over the next 4 years I will conduct a suite of research projects on topics of immediate significance to Australian policymakers; develop a new framework for pharmaceutical ethics and create a “Pharmaceutical Ethics and Politics Network.”
Building Resilience To Support Healthy Families And Children
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$419,180.00
Summary
This research investigates effects of social adversity on the health of parents and carers and their children. We will examine the effects of adversity on parents’ and carers’ physical and mental health, health behaviours and capacity to provide care for their children, and how in turn children’s health and development may be affected. We will then examine whether designing health services that are responsive to families specific needs and strengths may help to promote health and resilience.
Public Health Policies And Interventions To Reduce Tobacco-related Harms Among Socially Disadvantaged Populations And ‘low Probability Quitters’
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$421,747.00
Summary
Tobacco continues to be a leading cause of preventable death and disease in Australia. Those who are socially disadvantaged are at higher risk of smoking, which contributes to the health gap between the rich and poor. This research will provide evidence for policy makers on interventions which could reduce smoking among the most disadvantaged in society. It will also examine whether less harmful nicotine products could a reduce health risks in smokers who find quitting difficult.