Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the primary cause of premature death and disability in Australia and globally, with long-established roots in early life. However, risk factors for ASCVD are conventionally screened and treated in middle adulthood when the disease is often advanced, diminishing the efficacy of preventive interventions. This approach completely fails the over 50% of individuals under 40 whose sudden cardiac deaths are attributable to ASCVD.
Throughout my research journey, I have focused on exploring and refining the early-life origins of ASCVD. I have identified both traditional and novel risk factors, and through longitudinal modelling that considers their interactions and timing, risk prediction can be substantially improved.
This project seeks to bridge the gaps in screening and treatment paradigms for young people. By using advanced modelling techniques on long-standing child-to-adulthood cohorts with clinically verified ASCVD outcomes, it seeks to refine screening. The project will examine individual responses to therapeutic lifestyle interventions within randomised controlled trials from childhood to young adulthood, aiming to optimise available treatment approaches. Furthermore, it will address public and professional hesitations and barriers to early screening and intervention.
This innovative plan is designed to equip healthcare professionals with optimised guidelines, and proactive tools for timely, precise prevention and intervention initiatives. Effective treatments are available for ASCVD prevention. More effective strategies for selection and timing of treatment will shield younger individuals from the devastating impact of premature ASCVD and mitigate the societal burden of this chronic, devastating disease.
Last updated09 May 2025
Last reviewed08 May 2025