George Institute researchers tackle stroke diagnosis and cardiovascular risk with Heart Foundation funding

Earlier diagnosis, faster treatment and better prevention are key to improving outcomes for people affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. Two researchers from The George Institute for Global Health have secured Heart Foundation funding to advance research aimed at identifying brain bleeds sooner and expanding treatment options for people at increased cardiovascular risk

Professor Clare Arnott is exploring new ways to protect heart health in high-risk populations

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of non-AIDS-related death among people living with HIV, while some cancer treatments can cause lasting damage to the heart. Yet preventive treatment options remain limited for many people at risk of these complications.

Professor Clare Arnott, Co-Director of the Global Cardiovascular Program, has been awarded a Heart Foundation Future Leader Fellowship to investigate whether SGLT2 inhibitors can improve cardiovascular health in people living with HIV and reduce heart damage caused by anthracycline chemotherapy.

The OPTIMAR and STOP-ACT clinical trials, in collaboration with the Kirby Institute and St Vincent’s Hospital, will evaluate whether these medicines can improve outcomes in populations with limited options for cardiovascular prevention. The findings could help expand treatment options and inform future clinical guidelines.

Associate Professor Cheryl Carcel is advancing earlier diagnosis and treatment for haemorrhagic stroke

Supported by a Heart Foundation Future Leader Fellowship, Associate Professor Cheryl Carcel, Head of the Brain Health Program, will lead a program of research focused on improving the early diagnosis and treatment of intracerebral haemorrhage. The work will evaluate biomarker-guided prehospital care using point-of-care blood testing to help paramedics identify brain bleeds sooner and begin targeted treatment earlier. The program aims to generate evidence needed to support wider implementation of this approach and improve outcomes for people experiencing stroke.

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With brain bleeds, every minute counts. If we can diagnose in the ambulance, we can treat in the ambulance, and that matters most for people who live far from a stroke centre.

By:

Associate Professor Cheryl Carcel