Project Details
Project Description
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a significant health concern in Australia, leading to considerable mortality and healthcare burden. While primary prevention strategies aim to deter CVD development in asymptomatic individuals, the efficacy of low-dose aspirin in this context remains contentious due to the challenge of balancing benefits with bleeding risks. Despite conflicting evidence in the general population, specific high-risk subgroups may derive substantial benefits from aspirin therapy, potentially outweighing bleeding risks. Our project aims to harness high-throughput DNA technologies for precision prevention through genomic risk stratification, targeting specific high-risk subgroups within the population. By identifying precise subgroups most likely to benefit from aspirin therapy, we aim to optimize primary prevention strategies for CVD. We will use polygenic risk scores as a risk stratification tool to explore the potential benefits of aspirin in reducing the incidence of atrial fibrillation, stroke, and type 2 diabetes, while considering bleeding risks. This approach has been demonstrated previously, with high-impact publications and proof-of-concept analyses on coronary artery disease. Our proposal is supported by an exceptional large randomized controlled trial cohort study (ASPREE), experienced mentors and investigators, and robust research infrastructure at Monash University, ensuring future success, feasibility, and return on investment. The anticipated outcomes extend to building capacity in "genomic-driven" clinical trials and targeted preventive strategies, enabling the identification of high-risk individuals who benefit most from established preventive agents like aspirin and statins. Additionally, our proposal includes a training component, recruiting and mentoring a junior scientist to develop skills in statistical genetics, genetic epidemiology, and polygenic scores in public health. This project represents a paradigm shift from the traditional "one size fits all" approach to preventive medicine towards "precision prevention," promising future advancements in personalized healthcare strategies for CVD prevention.
Short title | Using genomics to improve the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease |
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Status | Active |
Effective start/end date | 1/01/25 → 31/12/26 |