This impact area describes our focus on the social, economic, human and ethical implications of health systems, interventions and technologies. It also encompasses our efforts in First Nations Health, where we aim to improve health outcomes for First Nations People at clinical, systemic and policy levels. At ANU, a focus on health and wellbeing involves addressing mental health and wellbeing challenges exacerbated in the current post-COVID geopolitical era. We will play a pivotal role in precision medicine, utilising advanced diagnostics, data-powered prognostics, and new therapeutics to prioritise early diagnosis and disease prevention.
Indigenous Health and Wellbeing Grand Challenge (IHWGC)
The Indigenous Health and Wellbeing Grand Challenge (IHWGC)’s vision is to enable improvements in health and wellbeing outcomes among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples using novel approaches and best practice principles. IHWGC benefits Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities by empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities and services.
Screening blitz could achieve cervical cancer elimination among Indigenous communities within a generation
Research from The Australian National University (ANU) and The University of Sydney (USYD) reveals cervical cancer among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples will not be eliminated without urgent and targeted action until 2047 – 12 years later than the federal government’s target of 2035.
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Rising CO₂ levels are reflected in human blood. Scientists don’t know what it means
Humans evolved in an atmosphere containing roughly 200–300 parts per million (ppm) of carbon dioxide (CO₂). Today, that figure sits above 420 ppm, higher than at any point in the history of our species.
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Discovery of tiny RNA fragments unlock giant potential for new autoimmune disease treatments
Extremely short, or tiny, fragments of RNA – working copies of our genetic code – play a critical role in keeping the immune system in check, preventing inflammation and the onset of autoimmune disease, according to an international team of researchers led by scientists from The Hudson Institute of Medical Research in collaboration with The Australian National University (ANU).
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ADHD prescriptions are up tenfold, with the wealthiest kids most likely to be medicated
The number of young people in Australia prescribed medication for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) increased more that tenfold in 20 years, our new research shows, while it is no longer most prevalent in poorer areas.
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Scientists develop technique to identify malfunctions in our genetic code
An international team of researchers including scientists from The Australian National University (ANU) have developed a way to reveal the smallest of malfunctions in the biochemical machinery that makes proteins in our bodies.
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