News Archive
Does protective clothing help prevent injury in a motorcycle crash? - 14-Mar-08
And could it be more effective in doing so? These are some of the questions that will be addressed as part of a new three-year research project by The George Institute.
A ten percent lowering of 'bad' LDL-cholesterol could save 3,000 Australian lives a year - 13-Mar-08
New research by the Nutrition and Lifestyle team at The George Institute has indicated that even small reductions in cholesterol can substantially reduce heart attacks and strokes.
Smoking and high blood pressure: a double blow for bleeding stroke risk - 7-Mar-08
Smoking may exacerbate the increased risk of a blood vessel bursting inside the brain (intracerebral stroke) already faced by people with high blood pressure, according to a new study by Institute researchers.
Early blood pressure reduction to improve stroke outcomes - 23-Feb-08
Early and intensive lowering of high blood pressure shows promising effects in stroke patients, according to results of a new stroke study by The George Institute for International Health.
The George Institute strongly supports saying sorry - 12-Feb-08
We believe that saying sorry is an important step forward for Australia. Saying sorry recognises past injustices and gives us a strong base from which to move forward.
Institute Youth Ambassador short listed as Young Voice in Research for Health - 8-Feb-08
Dashiell Gantner was short listed for the 2007 Young Voices in Research for Health essay competition jointly sponsored by the Global Forum for Health Research and The Lancet.
AusAID funding win for mortality reporting systems project in Vietnam - 8-Feb-08
Professor Mark Stevenson and Dr Rebecca Ivers have been awarded $440,600 for a project evaluating and enhancing the national mortality reporting systems in Vietnam.
Institute expands Musculoskeletal program - 8-Feb-08
The Institute's musculoskeletal program will be expanding heavily into evidence-based physiotherapy with the arrival of a new team of staff, headed by Professor Chris Maher.
Concerns about salt and children revealed: Parents call for action during Salt Awareness Week - 31-Jan-08
A consumer poll published today reveals parents' concerns about salt levels in children's foods, with 86% of parents calling for more action to be taken.
Focus on sleep apnea and cardiovascular events: SAVE Study - 19-Dec-07
A pivotal research program linking sleep and cardiovascular medicine experts across the Asia-Pacific region is taking shape. The study aims to produce high level evidence that will shape clinical decision making and future health policy in an area of significant global health burden.
Working in collaboration to address Gates Grand Challenge - 19-Dec-07
Establishing themselves as a key player in the global fight against major diseases, The George Institute, India in collaboration with the University of Queensland in Australia and Washington, Harvard and Johns Hopkins Universities in the US, which has received funding from The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to enable accurate measurement of health status in developing countries.
Strong link between obesity and colorectal cancer - 14-Dec-07
A clear, direct link between obesity and colorectal cancer, the second most common form of cancer in Australia with more than 12,000 new cases each year, has been shown in a new analysis by The George Institute for International Health in Sydney, Australia.
Road injury research honoured by NHMRC - 13-Dec-07
Institute research into young drivers and road injury was recognised last night by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), as an Institute researcher received a major new gong for her significant contributions in the field.
Implications of the new HIV estimate for India - 2-Dec-07
The 2007 UN AIDS/WHO AIDS epidemic update released last week has revised the global estimate of HIV/AIDS primarily due to a major reduction of the estimate for India to 2.5 million people living with HIV/AIDS, which is less than half of the previous official estimate of 5.7 million people. This revision is based on new population-based data from the National Family Health Survey in India.
World's #1 killer set to affect 500 million people - 28-Nov-07
Elevated blood pressure levels are the leading cause of death across the world, causing more than 7 million deaths each year. According to a new research report from The George Institute for International Health, published in the journal Hypertension, blood pressure related diseases such as coronary heart disease and stroke are continuing to cause potentially preventable death and disability globally, with a particularly large burden in developing countries such as India and China.
Australian Institute expands for better health in India - 28-Nov-07
The George Institute for International Health, today announced the launch of The George Institute, India in Hyderabad.
The challenge of global inequalities in cardiovascular care - 8-Nov-07
Principal Director Professor Stephen MacMahon focussed on the disparity between the distribution of burden and the distribution of expenditure on cardiovascular health care when he gave the 2007 Paul Dudley White International Lecture to the American Heart Association in Orlando, Florida.
George scholar receives Peter Vulcan Award for best research paper - 1-Nov-07
Liz de Rome, a Research Scholar with the Institute's Injury and Musculoskeletal Division, has been recognised with a Peter Vulcan Award for best research paper at the Australasian Road Safety Research Policing and Education Conference.
Institute researcher wins Elaine Wodzin Young Achiever Award - 15-Oct-07
Senior Research Fellow Michael Fitzharris has been awarded the Elaine Wodzin Young Achiever Award by the Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine (AAAM) for contributions to the field of traffic injury prevention.
INIT II - Type 1 diabetes nasal spray vaccine trial now recruiting - 9-Oct-07
Participants are currently being recruited for the clinical trial of an intranasal insulin spray that is being tested to determine whether it provides protection against the onset of type 1 diabetes.
Blood pressure lowering provides double cardiovascular benefit for people with Chronic Kidney Disease - 5-Oct-07
New research, published today in the Journal of American Society of Nephrology by The George Institute for International Health in Sydney, has found that lowering blood pressure protects stroke victims with Chronic Kidney Disease from further strokes or heart attacks. Given the high risk of cardiovascular complications in people with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), these results have significant implications for millions of people across the world.
Glucosamine trial up and running - 27-Sep-07
The 'Long-term Evaluation of Glucosamine Sulphate (LEGS) Study' is now 'up and running' following support from the Central Sydney Division of General Practitioners in assisting with patient recruitment. This clinical trial will monitor patients with osteoarthritis of the knee to determine the benefits of glucosamine while assessing rates of cartilage loss.
The Kanyini Vascular Collaboration - 27-Sep-07
Until now, little Indigenous health research has exclusively focused on the barriers of implementing best-practice management of chronic diseases. In addition, there has been limited collaboration with Aboriginal controlled health services with the aim of finding meaningful solutions to chronic disease among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Staff profile - Dr David Peiris - 27-Sep-07
Dr David Peiris is Senior Research Fellow, Indigenous Health Services within the Institute's Renal Division.
Stroke research at The George receives $3million boost - 26-Sep-07
The George Institute was awarded over $3million in grants for stroke research by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) yesterday.
Malaria product portfolio would benefit from greater cohesion amongst stakeholders - 20-Sep-07
Malaria drug and vaccine research is booming. According to a report launched today in the UK by Australian researchers at The George Institute for International Health, 16 new malaria vaccine candidates are now in clinical trials; six new malaria drugs are about to reach the market; and by 2011 we will have up to 12 new anti-malarial drug product registered.
Landmark study shows blood pressure drugs cut death rate in type 2 diabetes - 2-Sep-07
The largest-ever study of treatments for type 2 diabetes has shown that a combination of two blood pressure lowering drugs reduced the risk of death, as well as the risks of heart and kidney disease. The ADVANCE (Action in Diabetes and Vascular Disease) Study was led by researchers at The George Institute for International Health who presented the results at the recent European Congress of Cardiology in Vienna.
Large intensive care study reveals vital recommendations for treatment of brain injury patients - 30-Aug-07
A landmark Australian and New Zealand intensive care study has provided vital information for the treatment of patients with brain injuries. The results of the SAFE-TBI Study, published today in the New England Journal of Medicine, confirm that the choice of resuscitation fluids affects the chances of patients with brain injury surviving.
George Institute joins Grand Challenges in Global Health collaboration - 21-Aug-07
The George Institute has entered into a collaboration to contribute to the Population Health Metrics Research Consortium Project, which has received funding from The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation as part of the Grand Challenges in Global Health initiative.
Collaborations at the forefront of Indian Minister of Health visit to Sydney - 20-Aug-07
The George Institute and the School of Public Health and Faculty of Medicine at the University of Sydney recently co-hosted a visit from India's Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Dr Anbumani Ramadoss.
Elsa Atkin brings her strengths in public advocacy and management to Institute board - 16-Aug-07
Company director, cultural management consultant and change agent, Elsa Atkin, has been appointed to the Institute's Board of Directors.
Institute Research Fellow shortlisted as "Young Voice" in Health Research - 16-Aug-07
Dashiell (Dash) Gantner, a Research Fellow and Australian Youth Ambassador for Development with The George Institute, has been shortlisted in the Young Voices in Research for Health 2007 competition run by the Global Forum for Health Research and the The Lancet.
Stephen MacMahon chairs International Scientific Advisory Board of UK Biobank - 7-Aug-07
Principal Director Stephen MacMahon has been appointed as Chair of the International Scientific Advisory Board of the UK Biobank - a major medical research initiative.
Spotlight on road injury research - 6-Aug-07
Road traffic injuries are a growing public health problem, affecting millions of people worldwide each year. Globally nearly 1.2 million people die and between 20 million and 50 million people are injured or disabled as a result of road traffic injuries each year, with the majority of deaths occurring in the Western Pacific and South-East Asia.
2007 John Chalmers Award winners: Hung Dang Viet and Rohina Joshi - 30-Jul-07
The 2007 John Chalmers Awards will go to Hung Dang Viet and Rohina Joshi.
Jason Yat-sen Li joins Institute board - 20-Jul-07
International lawyer, political lobbyist and community leader, Jason Yat-sen Li has joined the Institute's Board of Directors. Jason's background is in human rights law and he has now spent over five years working in the commercial sector in both Australia and China.
Results from largest ever study on type 2 diabetes could have huge implications for patients - 8-Jul-07
A landmark, six-year trial has now closed the part of the study that aims to investigate the effect of blood pressure lowering, on the risk of macro- and micro- vascular complications in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Coinciding with National Diabetes Week, the data from this blood pressure component of the ADVANCE study, will now be analysed by the leaders of the study here in Australia and presented at the European Society of Cardiology meeting (1-5 September 2007).
George Institute and Rural Health collaboration - 22-Jun-07
A proposed formal collaboration between the School of Rural Health at The University of Sydney and The George Institute will focus on clinical trials and establishing a vascular clinic at the School of Rural Health, based on the model currently being established at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital.
The George Institute, China - Opening Ceremony - 21-Jun-07
The opening ceremony to mark the launch of The George Institute, China was held on 22 May 2007.
Effective tobacco control policies are crucial in preventing a large number of smoking-related deaths from lung cancer in Asia - 21-Jun-07
New research has highlighted the importance of developing effective tobacco control policies and campaigns to curb the high smoking levels in Asia. Failure to do so could see 160 million current smokers die before 2050, with the vast majority of these deaths occurring in China.
Australians smart on salt but slow to act: The George Institute launches the 'Drop the Salt!' campaign - 21-Jun-07
A five-year salt reduction campaign that will unite health professionals, food industry, government, scientists and consumer organisations was launched on 15 May in Australia.
Seat belt intervention points to lower deaths on China's roads - 21-Jun-07
With more than 100,000 road deaths per year, China accounts for around 15% of the world's annual fatalities from traffic accidents.
John Chalmers a finalist in The Bulletin Smart 100 - 19-Jun-07
Senior Director John Chalmers has been nominated as one of 10 finalists in the Health and Medicine category of The Bulletin's Smart 100 list.
Passengers, not just mobile phones, contribute to road accidents - 23-May-07
New research by Australian scientists, soon to be published in the international Accident Analysis and Prevention journal, has shown that drivers carrying two or more passengers are twice as likely to crash as unaccompanied drivers.
New Beijing institute to significantly enhance health research in China - 22-May-07
The George Institute for International Health will today host an official ceremony to mark the opening of The George Institute, China. The new Institute in Beijing is a significant landmark in the development of research and capacity building in support of China's health priorities
Parents and schools, major factors in China obesity boom - 21-May-07
A study of high schools in China has found community, school and household factors have a major impact on obesity in adolescents. The new research highlights the need for more effective, preventative strategies that tackle parenting attitudes and school environments to reduce the growing rate of obesity in Chinese adolescents.
"Bigger the baby, the better" axiom is incorrect! - 17-May-07
Contrary to popular belief and alerts by the World Health Organization (WHO), new research by The George Institute for International Health indicates that the importance of the reported relationship between birth weight and coronary heart disease has been overestimated.
Australians smart on salt but slow to act - 15-May-07
New consumer research has found that, while most Australians know too much salt is bad for health, they are not doing much about it. These and other key findings will be announced at the launch of 'The Drop the Salt!' campaign in Sydney today.
Caring for the sick now a public health priority for developing countries - 9-May-07
The epidemic rates of chronic disease such as diabetes, stroke and heart disease, as well as cancer and HIV/AIDS in many low-middle income countries, means they are experiencing a greater need for palliative care than most western countries.
Annual Report now available - 7-May-07
The Institute's Annual Report for 2006 is now available.
Institute provides input on road safety in China - 4-May-07
A senior director of The George Institute has been invited to present a paper and facilitate a keynote session at the Multi-Sectoral Forum on Road Safety in China.
Seat belt intervention shows many lives can be saved on China's roads - 24-Apr-07
Results of the China Seat Belt Intervention were released today in Beijing.
Will treating sleep apnea reduce cardiovascular risk? - 23-Apr-07
An international research project, commencing this year in China, is looking at whether treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) reduces cardiovascular disease. The study has the potential to reduce the risk of strokes and heart failure in an increasing number of people who experience OSA, and could significantly alter management of cardiovascular risk.
Institute helps Australia answer urgent WHO call to lower salt in food - 18-Apr-07
A new World Health Organization (WHO) report has highlighted the strong scientific evidence for the damage to health caused by eating too much salt, and is calling for countries around the globe to urgently adopt national approaches to reduce the salt content of foods. The George Institute is playing a key role in Australias salt reduction plans.
ACE inhibitors provide greater heart protection - 4-Apr-07
The blood pressure-lowering drugs called ACE inhibitors provide almost ten percent greater protection against coronary heart disease, compared with angiotensin receptor blockers, says new research published today in the Journal of Hypertension by The George Institute for International Health.
Australasian mental health research needs a wider perspective: study - 2-Apr-07
A study recently published in World Psychiatry, has found that much of the research on mental health published by Australian and New Zealand researchers is of limited relevance to a truly international audience.
Health research seriously undervalued in Australia - Dr John Yu - 26-Mar-07
Former Australian of the Year and Chairman of The George Institute for International Health, Dr John Yu says health research, both locally and internationally, is seriously undervalued and in dire need of attention.
High blood pressure the culprit in 2 out of 3 heart attacks and strokes in the Asia-Pacific - 23-Mar-07
Globally hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the top three leading modifiable risk factors of disease, along with tobacco and alcohol.
Young driver licence review, a welcome step in the right direction - 23-Mar-07
Road trauma remains one of the leading causes of death for young Australians. Of particular concern is the fact that more than a quarter of all fatal road injuries and hospitalisations are in the age group 17 to 25 years and yet this age group comprises only 15% of licenced drivers.
Key to preventing chronic kidney disease and its devastating complications - 23-Mar-07
Around 1 in 7 Australian adults have chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD causes or contributes to almost 1 in 10 deaths in Australia. In addition, individuals with CKD have a significantly higher risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke, as people with moderate to severe CKD have at least a 40% increased risk of hospitalisation for a cardiovascular event.
George Institute establishes firm foothold in China - 23-Mar-07
In recent years, The George Institute has embraced a range of research, policy and capacity building activities in China.
Quitting smoking reduces risk of lung cancer mortality by 70% - 22-Mar-07
Giving up smoking is highly effective in preventing death from lung cancer and can reduce the risk of dying from the disease by up to 70%.
Joanna Capon brings her passion for China to the George Institute - 14-Mar-07
Art historian and industrial archaeologist, Joanna Capon, has been appointed to the Institute's Board of Directors. Joanna is also a curator, writer, cataloguer and lecturer, and has a particular passion for Chinese history and art.
Institute forum aiming to contribute to improved productivity and targeting of malaria R&D - 14-Mar-07
On 19-20 April, the Institute's Health Policy Division (HPD) will hold two closed-door Working Groups with developers and funders to discuss HPD's findings on the current malaria drug and vaccine portfolio and its future development .
Spotlight on Cardiovascular Research - 12-Mar-07
Cardiovascular disease is the number one cause of death globally. The Institute's Cardiovascular Division aims to discover and implement new strategies for the prevention of stroke, heart attack and other major vascular diseases.
Economic impact of kidney disease in Australia - report released - 9-Mar-07
The cost of treating kidney disease in Australia is rising by $50 million a year and will jump from $700 million in 2006 to $900 million in 2010 according to the first ever report on The Economic Impact of Kidney Disease in Australia.
China Road Safety Study to be presented at APEC - 6-Mar-07
On 28 March 2007, the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation will be hosting the APEC Automotive Dialogue Road Safety Summit, in Adelaide
George Institute to contribute to research review at London's Imperial College - 6-Mar-07
A Senior Director at The George Institute, Professor John Chalmers, has been invited to review the research program of The International Centre for Circulatory Health at St Mary's Hospital and Imperial College London.
George Institute and Peking University reaffirm cooperation on health research - 6-Mar-07
Peking University Health Science Center and The George Institute have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for another three years.
Novel mortality surveillance approach in rural India recognised with PhD award - 6-Mar-07
A novel mortality study, involving the establishment of a verbal autopsy based mortality surveillance system in rural Andhra Pradesh, has resulted in the awarding of a PhD to a George researcher.
Professor WU Yangfeng - Director of The George Institute, China - 5-Mar-07
Professor Yangfeng WU has been appointed the Director of The George Institute, China.
Asia-Pacific has the biggest diabetes burden in the world - 28-Feb-07
A new finding, from the Asia-Pacific Cohort Studies Collaboration (APCSC) and published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition, shows that up to 12% of cardiovascular deaths in the region (heart disease and stroke) are due to diabetes.
Institute was Ambassador to China's first official appointment - 27-Feb-07
Earlier in the month, Professor WU Yangfeng, Director of The George Institute, China, and Professor Mark Stevenson, Senior Director, Research and Development, met with Dr Geoff Raby, Australia's recently appointed Ambassador to China.
Dr Stephane Heritier appointed as a conjoint senior lecturer - 27-Feb-07
Senior Research Biostatistician, Dr Stephane Heritier, has recently been given a conjoint appointment as Senior Lecturer at The George Institute and The University of Sydney's Faculty of Medicine.
Senior Director receives BioMed Central Research Award - 21-Feb-07
Professor Lalit Dandona, Senior Director with George Institute, India, has been awarded the BioMed Central Research Award in the field of medicine for a paper on HIV in India.
Grant win for rural Indigenous injury research - 21-Feb-07
A collaborative team from the George Institute of International Health, Yooroang Garang: School of Indigenous Health Studies at the University of Sydney and the Bourke Aboriginal Health Service have successfully competed for a Department of Health and Ageing Falls Prevention and Injury Prevention Community Grant.
Kathleen Clapham appointed Director of the Woolyungah Indigenous Centre - 13-Feb-07
Dr Kathleen Clapham, a Senior Research Fellow at the George, has been appointed the Director of the Woolyungah Indigenous Centre.
China staff move into new offices - 13-Feb-07
The staff of The George Institute, China have moved in to new offices in Beijing's Haidan District.
Health Economics Collaboration Seminar Series 2007 - 31-Jan-07
The program has been announced for a series of seminars by the Health Economics Collaboration.
Spotlight on Indigenous Research - 18-Jan-07
Renal health and injury prevention are the two central areas of Indigenous health research at The George Institute.
2 out of 3 Heart Attacks and Strokes in Asia-Pacific Caused by High Blood Pressure - 18-Jan-07
New research has revealed that high blood pressure causes up to 66% of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart disease and stroke, in the Asia-Pacific Region.
P-Plate Review, a Step in the Right Direction - 10-Jan-07
Professor Mark Stevenson has praised the recommendations made by the NSW Young Driver Advisory Panel to restrict late-night passenger numbers and ban mobile phone use by P-platers.
3000th Patient Recruited to NICE-SUGAR Study - 4-Jan-07
3000 patients have now been enrolled in the NICE-SUGAR Study - a trial aimed at improving the management of critically ill patients in an Intensive Care setting.
Drivers Ignore the Risk of Mobile Phone Use - 11-Dec-06
A George Institute road safety study has revealed an alarmingly high rate of mobile phone use amongst Australian drivers. Published in the Medical Journal of Australia this week, the survey conducted in NSW and WA found that 60% of drivers use a mobile phone whilst behind the wheel, resulting in crashes and negligent driving.
New Research Shows Big Improvement in Survival After Stroke - 11-Dec-06
A new research report by The George Institute for International Health, in collaboration with Auckland City Hospital and The University of Auckland, has revealed a 40% decline in the number of deaths after stroke in the total population of Auckland, New Zealand over the past 25 years. The study attributes the improved survival rate to health care factors associated with an increase in hospital admission and brain imaging during the most severe phase of the illness.
Reducing the burden of kidney disease - 6-Dec-06
In Australia, kidney disease causes or contributes to approximately one in ten deaths. The burden of disease among Aboriginal Australians is much heavier, with rates of end-stage kidney disease being up to thirty times more than the national average.
Tackling injury in Indigenous Kids - 6-Dec-06
Injury is a leading cause of Indigenous mortality in Australia, yet little is known about the impact of injury on Indigenous children and youth, particularly those living in urban areas. To increase our understanding of the relationship between injury, socio-economic disadvantage and resilience in Indigenous communities, The George Institute is undertaking a major study, called Safe Koori Kids.
Healthier Hearts for Online Shoppers - 5-Dec-06
New research from The George Institute has seen online grocery shoppers improve their diets at the click of a button. Results from what is the world's first study of internet shopping, shows that offering simple dietary advice to online consumers can lead to significantly healthier food choices.
NHMRC awards two new Research Fellowships to Institute staff - 5-Dec-06
Alan Cass and Mark Stevenson have both been awarded Research Fellowships by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).
Kathleen Clapham wins Australian Injury Prevention Network award - 5-Dec-06
Kathleen Clapham was recently awarded the Australian Injury Prevention Network's 2006 Award for Meritorious Achievement in Research.
Leonie Crampton nominated as Vice-President of AHRDMA - 5-Dec-06
Senior Project Manager, Leonie Crampton has been nominated as Vice-President of the Australasian Health and Research Data Managers Association.
David Ali Elected to ARCS Board - 5-Dec-06
Senior Project Manager, David Ali, has been elected to the board of the Association of Regulatory and Clinical Scientists (ARCS).
Government's P-Plate panel undermined by limited representation - 1-Dec-06
Despite claims by the NSW Roads Minister, Eric Roozendaal, that the panel appointed to investigate solutions to the rising toll of young P-Plate driver fatalities is comprised of a "very broad set of people", its effectiveness will be undermined by a lack of scientific input, says Professor Mark Stevenson of The George Institute.
Economic Impact of Kidney Disease in Australia - 23-Nov-06
Approximately one in seven (almost two million) Australian adults have chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), where death is inevitable unless dialysis or a kidney transplant is performed. Sadly, people with CKD have a poor quality of life and an elevated risk of premature death due to cardiovascular disease.
Stroke Society: New Investigator Award - 13-Nov-06
Dr Alex Headley, Clinical Research Fellow at The George Institute recently received the Stroke Society of Australia 'Peter Bladin' New Investigator Award for the best scientific presentation at the Annual Scientific Meeting of the Stroke Society of Australasia, October 2006, held in Adelaide.
Stroke Rates Falling in the West - 12-Oct-06
The incidence of stroke in Perth, Western Australia has declined 43% over the last decade, according to new research announced today by The George Institute for International Health at the Annual Scientific Meeting of the Stroke Society of Australasia held in Adelaide.
Medical experts launch global campaign against salt to prevent over 2.5 million deaths worldwide each year - 4-Oct-06
194 medical experts from 48 countries around the world (1) have today joined together to launch a new global organisation, WASH 'World Action on Salt and Health' in a concerted effort to reduce dietary salt intake to less than 5g per day per adult (the WHO target), in order to lower blood pressure globally.
Chronic Diseases and Injuries Now Number One Killer in Rural India - 28-Sep-06
Cardiovascular disease is now a leading cause of death in rural India, according to new research published by The George Institute for International Health and The University of Queensland. The findings from a large survey conducted in Andhra Pradesh, India, highlights the rapid growth of chronic diseases and injuries in developing countries. Published this week in the International Journal of Epidemiology, the report raises significant concerns for hundreds of millions of individuals living i...
Safe Koori Kids Program Launched in South-west Sydney - 21-Sep-06
Students of Briar Rd Public School at Airds in Sydney's South West launched the new education program 'Safe Koori Kids' on Thursday 21 September, 2006. Briar Rd Public School has been specially selected to pilot the program, designed to educate children and raise community awareness of safety and the importance of preventing injuries to children.
Anti-inflammatory Drugs following Hip Replacement Surgery Could Harm Rather than Help - 11-Sep-06
The use of anti-inflammatory drugs following hip replacement surgery could do more harm than good, according to a new study co-coordinated by The George Institute for International Health in association with orthopedic centres throughout Australian and New Zealand.
Study Points to Improvements Needed in China Heart Care - 5-Sep-06
Inequitable and cost-inefficient allocation of scarce resources has been found to be a key problem in the management of heart attack and severe angina patients in China, according to the results of a study announced today at the World Congress of Cardiology in Barcelona, Spain.
Drivers distracted once every six minutes - 1-Sep-06
New results on driver distraction show that drivers engage in a distracting activity on average once every six minutes, frequently resulting in driving errors and road crashes.
The Lower The Blood Pressure, The Better - 1-Sep-06
The Minister for Health and Ageing, Tony Abbott, today launched a new book showcasing the best in Australian health research from recent years. The "10 of the Best" book highlights ten world-leading medical research projects and includes the largest ever study of the effects of blood pressure lowering medications on the major killers, stroke and heart attack.
China Health Policy Roundtable - 'Access to Basic Health Care Services' - 31-Aug-06
The China Health Policy Roundtable on 'Access to Basic Health Care Services' took place on the 11 and 12 May 2006 in Beijing. This meeting was the final in a series of three Roundtables established under the auspices of the Memorandum of Understanding between the China Ministry of Health and the George Institute for International Health.
Staff Profile - Dr Andre Pascal Kengne - 31-Aug-06
Andre Pascal joined The George Institute after leaving Cameroon in 2005, bringing a wealth of enthusiasm and knowledge of non-communicable diseases to the Cardiovascular Division.
Global Heart Meeting Comes to Australia - 15-Aug-06
International researchers from as far afield as Slovakia, Nigeria, Nepal and Iran will converge on Queensland this week to join an International World Heart Federation teaching seminar on cardiovascular diseases. Since 1968, the annual seminar has educated scientists and clinicians in research practices, to strengthen global efforts at combating the world's leading killer.
Study Reveals High Rate of Diabetes in Rural India - 28-Jun-06
Populations in rural India may be set for an epidemic of diabetes according to new research conducted by The George Institute for International Health and published today in Diabetes Care. In a large-scale survey of rural India, 13% of adults aged 30 or above were found to have diabetes in a developing area of Andhra Pradesh with a further 16% exhibiting features of pre-diabetes.
The John Chalmers Doctoral and Post-Doctoral Award Winners 2006 - 28-Jun-06
The John Chalmers Award recognises outstanding research undertaken by doctoral students and post-doctoral fellows at The George Institute.
Road Traffic Injury: A Big Problem for Global Health and for Australians Travelling in Asia - 8-May-06
A major review published today in The Lancet has revealed the enormity of road traffic injuries in countries that can least afford to meet the health and economic costs.
$2.8million Announced for Health Research Study for Indigenous Australians - 27-Mar-06
The National Health and Medical Research Council has announced a $2.8 million research grant for a study aimed at improving the health outcomes of Aboriginal Australians with chronic disease.
Salt Substitute Significantly Reduces Hypertension Amongst Rural Chinese - 14-Mar-06
A salt substitute specially formulated to be flavourful and effective has significantly reduced blood pressure among high-risk residents of northern, rural China, where salt-pickled foods are a dietary mainstay and hypertension is rampant.
Study on Brain Injury in Rugby Players Will Enhance Safety and Recovery - 13-Mar-06
Coinciding with International Brain Awareness Week (13- 19 March 2006), The George Institute for International Health will launch the second phase of a large-scale study on mild-Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) among non-elite rugby union and league players in Sydney.
China partners with international expertise to improve road safety - 23-Feb-06
National and International members of the China seatbelt intervention Steering Committee will meet today in Beijing to discuss the progress of a leading project in the province of Guangzhou, which addresses the low usage of seatbelt wearing rates among drivers and front seat passengers in China...
Study Reveals Maori and Pacific Islanders Have Increasing Incidence of Stroke - 24-Jan-06
A study published this month in Stroke* investigating trends in stroke incidence in Auckland, New Zealand shows Maori and Pacific peoples are suffering more strokes than other ethnic groups.
Review Highlights Need for Improved Treatment of Depression in Elderly Stroke Patients - 9-Jan-06
A review of the management of post-stroke depression in the elderly conducted by The George Institute for International Health calls for significant improvements to be made in the organisation of stroke services to address a major unmet need.
Latest Research and Development Advisory Committee Meeting Outcomes - 8-Dec-05
To ensure goals align with global health priorities, The George Institute is advised by the Research and Development Advisory Committee (RADAC) comprised of international authorities on non-communicable diseases and injury, international health research experts and practitioners and representatives from global health and development agencies.
Injury Prevention for Indigenous Children Is Focus for New Study - 17-Oct-05
The George Institute for International Health has today announced a newly-funded study that will address one of Australia's key health priorities, injury prevention and control amongst Indigenous communities.
High Blood Pressure a Greater Risk for Stroke and Heart Disease In Asia Says New Study - 17-Oct-05
A new study on risk factors in cardiovascular disease in Asia has found that blood pressure is more strongly related to coronary heart disease and stroke in Asia, as compared with Western countries such as Australia and New Zealand.
China's Health Reform Challenges Highlighted by Minister's Visit - 13-Oct-05
China's Minister for Health, Mr GAO Qiang, recently visited several institutions in Sydney to discuss issues affecting health reform in China.
Chronic Diseases in Developing Regions Deserve Greater Attention - 10-Oct-05
A new report from the World Health Organization (WHO) calling for more concerted action to be directed towards the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases in poorer regions of the world is both welcome and timely, says The George Institute for International Health.
Largest Ever Asian Smoking Study Reveals Cardiovascular Health Risks - 22-Sep-05
The largest ever study of smoking in the Asia Pacific Region, and one of the largest smoking studies ever conducted anywhere in the world, has dispelled a long-held myth that smokers in Asian populations are less susceptible than Western populations to the risks of smoking, such as coronary heart disease and stroke.
New Studies Shed Light on Stroke Prevention and Management - 20-Sep-05
Coinciding with National Stroke Week in Australia (19 - 25 September 2005) is the release of results from two recent stroke studies from the George Institute for International Health that investigate both the causative factors as well as a little studied outcome of stroke, that of depression.
China Health Policy Roundtable Video - 13-Jul-05
The Second China Health Policy Roundtable was one of the many events held in China in April as part of the The George Institute's China Program. Download a short video of the Roundtable here...
The risk of car crash increases when using hand-held or hands-free mobile phone - 13-Jul-05
A study investigating mobile phone use and motor vehicle crash resulting in injury has found an elevated risk of crashing irrespective of whether or not a hands-free device was used.
Blood pressure lowering agents - little difference - 27-Jun-05
Findings from the largest-ever international study on the effects of blood pressure lowering agents were published today in the prestigious Archives of Internal Medicine.
2004 Year in Review now available - 16-Jun-05
The George Institute for International Health's Year in Review report for the 2004 Calendar Year is now available for viewing.
April 2005 Events in China - 14-Apr-05
The April 2005 China Health Policy Roundtable was the first in a series of successful events involving The George Institute's China Program. Health policy experts from Australia, Japan, Singapore, USA and the UK joined Chinese health officials over two days in Beijing to share their countries' experiences and knowledge of health care safety strategies.
Risk of cardiac death found to be higher in diabetic women than diabetic men - 18-Feb-05
Women with diabetes are at greater risk of dying from coronary heart disease (CHD) than are men with diabetes, according to results of a study presented by senior epidemiologist at The George Institute, Dr Rachel Huxley, in February at the Second International Conference on Women, Heart Disease, and Stroke in Orlando.
Researchers confirm: Size doesn't matter - 8-Dec-04
While a 9 or 10 pound newborn may appear to hold the key to a healthy future, new Australian research announced in the prestigious medical journal JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association) debunks the hypothesis that a higher birthweight reduces your chances of having heart disease later in life.
Researchers confirm new risk factor for heart disease - 2-Nov-04
After years of uncertainty in the medical community, researchers at The George Institute for International Health at the University of Sydney have produced convincing evidence that high triglyceride levels significantly increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, independent of other risk factors.
New website helps Australians get the upper hand on a silent killer - 13-Oct-04
Thanks to a new website - www.cholesterolcheck.info - Australians can now find out whether they could be at risk of an early death as a result of their cholesterol and, if so, what they can do about it.
Youth Forum 'welcome opportunity' for open dialogue on road safety - 28-Sep-04
Road safety experts have welcomed the opportunity to speak directly with young people about proposed changes to the NSW graduated licensing program, confirmed road safety expert Professor Mark Stevenson today, who is a keynote speaker at today's NRMA Youth Forum on Road Safety.
Heart disease in Asia set to devastate - 6-Sep-04
Cardiovascular disease is set to pose a major new threat to health and wealth in Asia, say international researchers, presenting new evidence this week in Beijing.
Young Indigenous drivers needed to join road safety study - 24-Aug-04
Young Indigenous people across New South Wales are being asked to join The George Institute's DRIVE study to help improve the safety of young drivers.
Researchers welcome government backflip on young driver restrictions - 7-Aug-04
The move to implement night curfews on young drivers is a welcome turnaround from the NSW Government, who were reluctant to support the idea when it was raised a month ago, confirmed road safety experts today.
Heart disease and stroke set to rise in developing countries - 5-Aug-04
Cardiovascular disease - heart attack and stroke - is fast becoming a major issue in developing countries according to a major report 'A Race Against Time: The Significance Of Cardiovascular Disease In Developing Economies.'
P-plate night driving restrictions would save lives - 7-Jul-04
Night curfews on young drivers have been proven to save lives, confirmed road safety expert Professor Mark Stevenson today.
$8.6 million to prevent heart attack and stroke - 5-Jul-04
The George Institute for International Health was today awarded the National Health and Medical Research Council's largest program grant to tackle Australia's biggest killer - heart disease.
INTERNATIONAL HEALTH EVENING SEMINAR SERIES: No Such Thing as Free Trade - 6-Apr-04
The second seminar of the 2004 International Health Evening Seminar Series took place on 6 April - "No Such Thing as Free Trade". Panel members spoke about the potential impact of the FTA on the supply, pricing and regulation of pharmaceutical medicines, both in Australia and the region. This was followed by an interactive discussion, with speakers responding to questions from the audience. Held at the Veterinary Science Conference Centre, University of Sydney, panel members included: Ken H...
INTERNATIONAL HEALTH EVENING SEMINAR SERIES: Counting the Cost - Immigration Policy and Mental Health - 4-Mar-04
The George Institute's International Health Evening Seminar Series for 2004 started on 4 March. with Dr Louise Newman (Director, NSW Institute of Psychiatry) and Dr Zachary Steele (Medical Researcher with the School of Psychiatry, University of NSW) providing a forum for discussion on immigration policy and mental health. Current immigration policy has major health and mental health implications for asylum seekers. The policy of mandatory detention and the prolonged arbitrary detention of chil...
Research & Development Advisory Committee (RADAC) Meeting - 15-Oct-03
The Research and Development Advisory Committee (RADAC) meets every two years to review and advise on the research and development programs of the Institute. The first RADAC meeting held in September 2001 was very positive and influential in shaping the Institute's priorities and accelerating the establishment of a Policy and Practice Program. The second meeting of the RADAC will be held on 15 & 16 October 2003. The committee will meet over 2 days with the first day being devoted to an open ... ...
Dr Derek Yach speaks at The George Institute Symposium - 14-Oct-03
As the last speaker in the 2003 International Health Seminar Series, Dr. Derek Yach, Representative of the Director-General of the World Health Organization presented a very popular and topical seminar entitled "Where to with WHO?" on Tuesday 14th October. During his presentation, Dr Yach provided highlights of the work of outgoing Director-General, Gro Harlem Brundtland and outlined the new directions for WHO set out by Dr Lee Jong-wook who started his five year term as Director-General of WHO ...
7th World Conference on Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion - 10-Oct-03
Vienna, Austria, June 2004 - The 7th World Conference on Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion will be taking place 6th to 9th of June under the auspices of the World Health Organization. Over 1500 delegates from more than 100 countries will be assembled at the Austria Center Vienna.
Conference Report: Global Health and Foreign Policy: Scope for Australian Engagement? - 18-Sep-03
Current world interest in the ties between security, poverty, health, human rights, globalisation and trade was an important backdrop at the Global Health and Foreign Policy Symposium, co-hosted by the Institute for International Health, and the School of Public Health and Community Medicine, the University of New South Wales.
Global Health and Foreign Policy Symposium - 18-Sep-03
In recent years there has been an increase in awareness of the critical role of health to economic development. It has also become apparent that no region is immune to the problems of others. Regional conflicts are heightened by socioeconomic and disease inequalities. Better health is linked to higher income and is likely to lead to more stable societies.
Roundtable on Global Health Research - 22-Jul-03
On 22 July the Institute for International Health, in collaboration with the Australian International Health Institute (Melbourne University), convened a one-day roundtable on global health research in Sydney.
Indigenous Health Policy Forum - 2-Jul-03
Indigenous health: moving from rhetoric to reality A 10 year plan for improving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health