Welcome to the first edition of Preventative Health UPDATE, a quarterly bulletin aimed at keeping you informed of the progress of one of the largest scientific initiatives mounted in Australia. The Preventative Health National Research Flagship is working with partners throughout Australia and around the globe to improve the health of Australians through a range of research projects. Read more.

Data mining

The Preventative Health Flagship is helping to unlock the treasure trove of information found in health records to create a powerful new diagnostic tool which will allow doctors to better assess or treat patients. The Health Data Integration (HDI) project, initiated by the Preventative Health Flagship, involves using new data-mining systems that allow health professionals to link and share data, while patient identities remain private. Read more.

CSIRO Confidential

The fear of our medical records falling into someone else’s hands has worried Australians for decades. Now, thanks to a project run by the Preventative Health Flagship, the usefulness of our medical data can be maximised for research without breaking patient confidentiality. Read more.

Colorectal cancer

One in twenty Australians suffer colorectal cancer (also known as bowel cancer). It is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in Australia. Yet one third of deaths can be prevented by early detection, so the Preventative Health Flagship is looking at how to encourage people to take a simple screening test and save their lives. Read more.  

Health forecasting

Imagine being able to consult your own personal health monitor to identify your current exposure to pollutants which could be harmful for respiratory ailments such as asthma. Personal health forecasting systems such as these may not be too far away, due to a new project now being undertaken by the Preventative Health Flagship. Read more.

Message from the Director

Data mining

CSIRO Confidential

Colorectal cancer

Health forecasting

Meet the Flagship Advisory Committee

About this email

The Preventative Health Flagship is a CSIRO initiative and part of the National Research Flagships program that aims to deliver scientific solutions to advance Australia's most important national objectives. One of the largest scientific initiatives ever mounted in Australia, it aligns closely with the Federal Government's National Research Priorities. The initiative brings together our national research resources to deliver breakthroughs in fields ranging from healthcare to light metals and the environment.

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This E-Newsletter is a publication of CSIRO Communications. It does not purport to be comprehensive or to render professional advice. All material in this publication is subject to copyright. For permission to reproduce any part or all of an article, please contact the editor.