Metabolic syndrome, inflammation and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in Busselton [ 2004 - 2005 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Matthew Knuiman (Principal investigator) ,  Prof John Beilby ,  Prof John Olynyk ,  Prof Joseph Hung ,  Prof Timothy Davis

Brief description The metabolic syndrome is a clustering of obesity, insulin resistance, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. It could affect up to 30% of the population and often leads to diabetes and heart disease. Fatty liver disease is a chronic liver condition that often has no symptoms but can lead to serious liver damage. It could affect up to 25% of the population and is common even in people who drink very little alcohol. The rising prevalence of obesity in Australia suggests that the metabolic syndrome and fatty liver disease may be on the increase and therefore so too could diabetes and heart disease which already consume significant health resources. Using the unique health data collection of the Busselton Health Study in Western Australia, this project will help to determine how common these conditions are in Australia and lead to a better understanding of the nature and causes of these conditions including the possible role of chronic inflammation. This important information will be used to provide opportunities for better risk assessment, disease prevention, and earlier intervention.

Funding Amount $AUD 351,300.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant