Patient non-compliance, such as the failure to take prescribed medicines, reduces the potential benefits of healthcare and represents a major cost to the public healthcare system. A financial incentive for patient compliance is one method which has been used to attempt to reduce this public health cost. However, the use of financial incentives has been viewed as unethical. This thesis aims to critically evaluate the main ethical objections to the use of such incentives.
A Comparison Of Arthroscopic Synovial Biopsy Based Targeted Biologic Therapy Versus Conventional Therapy In Rheumatoid Arthritis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$133,351.00
Summary
This proposed study will investigate if treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) based on biopsy of affected joints’ lining is better than standard therapy (not based on the results of biopsy). Current strategies to treat RA not infrequently result in incomplete disease suppression with potentially resultant joint damage, in part because of lack of definite guidelines to individualise treatment. We propose that therapy on the basis of the analysis of biopsy of joint lining will lead to better dise ....This proposed study will investigate if treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) based on biopsy of affected joints’ lining is better than standard therapy (not based on the results of biopsy). Current strategies to treat RA not infrequently result in incomplete disease suppression with potentially resultant joint damage, in part because of lack of definite guidelines to individualise treatment. We propose that therapy on the basis of the analysis of biopsy of joint lining will lead to better disease control than the currently prevalent approach.Read moreRead less
There is strong evidence of an increased falls risk associated with cataract, a primary cause of vision impairment in older Australians. This research will determine factors contributing to increases in falls risk in people aged 70 years and older with cataract before surgery, between first and second eye surgery, and after second eye surgery. The findings can inform the optimal management of older people with cataract and limit negative health impacts of cataract-related injury and falls.
Optimising Therapy In Anti-neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody (ANCA) Associated Vasculitis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$124,676.00
Summary
ANCA vasculitis is a rare autoimmune condition causing inflammation in small blood vessels, that can lead to organ failure and death. This research will help identify the best treatment approach for different subgroups of patients and the best timing of certain treatments. We will also explore patient symptoms and experience of this condition, and how this relates to disease activity, damage and medication effects.
Osteoporotic Fracture-Mortality Association And The Effect Of Anti-osteoporosis Treatment: A Multinational Study
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$84,800.00
Summary
Osteoporosis burden is due primarily to osteoporotic fractures resulting in economic and public health burden, increased disability, further fracture risk and more importantly early death. However, it remains under-treated although treatment reduces the number of fractures and may reduce early death. This study aims to understand which types of fractures result in early death and for which age groups and whether osteoporosis treatment does or does not reduce early death.
Investigating The Impact Of Ethnicity On Asthma: Determining Risk Factors, Modifiers, Clinical Phenotypes, And Differential Response To Treatment.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$125,396.00
Summary
Asthma is a common disease in Australia with significant burden on both patients and the public healthcare system. Patients from ethnic minorities have disproportionately worse outcomes and current treatment guidelines are based on research among Caucasian-based populations. My PhD will describe differences in clinical characteristics, outcomes and response to treatment between ethnic groups. The overall aim of my PhD is to develop highly effective asthma treatment for ethnic minorities.
Cardio-oncology is dedicated to preventing and treating cardiovascular issues in cancer patients. We aim to establish the first Australian perspective on this emerging field. We will assess the role of biomarkers in detecting cardiotoxicity from cancer therapy so patients can be safely guided through their cancer treatment. Finally, we will investigate if advanced cardiac imaging can detect cardiotoxicity earlier so patients can have optimal cancer therapy whilst preserving cardiac function.
Osteoporosis is a common problem with increased premature mortality associated with hip and even more minor fractures. The cause of increased mortality is debated although osteoporosis treatment may decrease this risk. This study will be the first to examine survival of all subjects in NSW admitted for a fracture including cause for subsequent hospitalisation and treatment taken. This study will help define the cause of the mortality and the role of anti osteoporosis treatment on outcome.
Management And Risk Prediction Of Paracetamol Overdose
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$98,950.00
Summary
Paracetamol overdose is the most common pharmaceutical poisoning in developed countries and incidence is increasing in the developing world. Overdose can lead to liver failure and death. Our research will evaluate a novel antidote regimen and whether early cessation of antidote for paracetamol toxicity in a specific cohort is safe, with implications of decreasing time in hospital. We will also identify risk prediction tools to help early identification of patients needing intensive treatment
Novel Therapeutic Strategies Targeting Aberrant Cell Cycle Regulation In Pancreatic Cancer And Development Of Robust Tissue-based Assay For Biomarkers Of Therapeutic Responsiveness
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$139,177.00
Summary
The overall aim of my research to assess noel therapeutic strategies in pancreatic cancer. Using new technology, more in depth understanding of pancreatic cancers (PC) is allowing better characterisation of these tumour into distinct molecular phenotypes. Some of these phenotypes are showing response to specific therapies in experimental models. Hence, there is an urgent need to to define these responsive phenotypes to stratify patients to appropriate therapeutic regimens.