RECORD BOOST TO TACKLE TWO OF AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST KILLERS

Stroke Foundation has welcomed the launch of a comprehensive research effort to tackle stroke and heart disease, with the Federal Government launching a $220 million 10-year mission for cardiovascular health.

Australian Health Minister Greg Hunt made the announcement in Sydney on February 26, to be funded via the government’s landmark Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF).

The grants will support Australian researchers to find the next big breakthroughs in cardiovascular disease – primarily stroke and heart disease – and develop a global biotech industry, as well as reduce hospitalisations.

More than 100,000 Australians suffer a stroke or a stroke each year, and those account for 43,000 deaths around the country.

Stroke Foundation research advisory committee chair Professor Amanda Thrift said the Mission had the potential to save lives and improve health outcomes for millions of Australians now and into the future.

“More than four million Australians live with heart disease and stroke, they are two of our nation’s biggest killers and their impact is on the increase,’’ Professor Thrift said.

“Yet, they can be prevented and can be treated. Research holds the key to stemming the tide of heart disease and stroke.”

Ms Thrift said the mission would enable the expansion of the collective knowledge of stroke and heart disease, and move disease prevention, care and treatment forward.

Stroke Foundation CEO Sharon McGowan applauded the announcement saying it would deliver a much-needed boost to the Australian research community.