The San’s Australasian Research Institute (ARI) started its research project into the development of diabetes in adolescents thanks to the fundraising efforts of the Novus Foundation. A collaboration of the Rotary Club of Wahroonga and Phil McCarroll Automotive, the Novus Foundation held its inaugural function in 2007. Patrons Federal MP Dr Brendan Nelson and NSW State MP Mr Barry O’Farrell joined notable guests like Retired General Peter Cosgrove and generous volunteer MC radio broadcaster Peter FitzSimons.
The dinner was to raise fund for “Healthy Under the Skin You’re In” - the joint clinical research project between the ARI and the University of New South Wales (UNSW).
“The research will help us identify what causes the production of a molecule that we believe plays a role in the development of diabetes in adolescents” said Dr Ross Grant Director of the ARI. “While recent research has identified that people who develop diabetes have lower levels of this molecule, we don’t yet know what actually influences its production by fat cells. This research aims to determine this.”
Professor Margaret Morris from the School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine at UNSW says the research could have major benefits. “Adolescents in 2007 are at far higher risk of developing diabetes than other generations because of changes in diet and exercise in the last 20 years. Identifying dietary or lifestyle factors that influence the production of this molecule will enable us to give accurate health messages to parents, school and teenagers.”
All enqueries should be directed to Dr Grant at the ARI on (02) 9487 9601.
Clinical Research Projects
A horrifying reality of modern Australian society is the staggering 5-10% yearly increase of type 2 diabetes amongst adolescents. For the first time in history, as a result of diabetes, weight and obesity complications, future generations may not outlive their parents.
"Healthy Under the Skin you’re in":
- is a collaborative research project between the Australasian Research Institute, the research arm of the Sydney Adventist Hospital, and the University of NSW
- hopes to stop the alarming growth of type 2 diabetes by identifying specific diet and lifestyle factors that influence the health of fat cells and prevent the development of diabetes
- expects to report the findings based on 500 adolescents in late 2008.
The project has been possible thanks to the generosity of the Novus Foundation. For all enquiries contact Dr Grant (02) 9487 9601.
San Cardiac Rehabilitation Helps People with Damaged Hearts
Exercise Physiologists from the San’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Team advise on exercise programs to reduce or prevent disease. The ageing population means the Team is in high demand to prescribe suitable exercise programs to people with a range of chronic conditions including heart disease.
Refurbished and extended temporary facilities help exercise physiologists to help more people. Patients are put on a 6-week monitored exercise program where they learn to manage their disease. This gives them the confidence to go out & resume daily activities and they change from being anxious and lacking in confidence to improving their level of physical function and confidence with exertion. The program also assists patients to identify their risk factors and provide them with strategies to manage and reduce the likelihood of a secondary event. Cardiac rehab offers a maintenance program to participants, families and friends interested in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
