New Catalyst grants target chronic conditions

Four new ‘catalyst’ projects targeting chronic health conditions in priority populations will share in $240,000 worth of funding awarded by The Hospital Research Foundation Group. 

The four projects focus on kidney function in pregnant women, gestational diabetes in Aboriginal women, type 2 diabetes and healthcare in Adelaide’s northern suburbs. 

The funding has been awarded through the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) Catalyst Grant Scheme. Led by Health Translation SA, the scheme provides a springboard for projects that have high potential for winning a future MRFF grant.   

This is the second year The Hospital Research Foundation Group has teamed up with Health Translation SA for the grant scheme, following the inaugural round last year. 

The successful projects include:  

Prof Shilpa Jesudason – Gaining pregnancy insights through the kidney
CALHN  

Experiencing kidney problems during pregnancy can cause lasting health issues for both mums and bubs. Despite increasing rates of diabetes and high blood pressure in pregnant women, first-trimester tests don’t check for kidney function.

This project aims to understand how frequently kidney problems occur during pregnancy, what impact it can have and who should be tested. 

Dr Rachel Elovaris – Helping Aboriginal women to self-manage gestational diabetes
SAHMRI 

Rates of gestational diabetes are higher among Aboriginal women than non-Aboriginal women, which can lead to poor outcomes for both mother and child if it isn’t properly managed. 

This study will test whether continuous glucose monitoring and healthy eating can help Aboriginal women manage their gestational diabetes and deliver a healthy baby. 

Dr Amy Hutchison – Technology and remote telehealth to empower self-management for people living with type 2 diabetes
University of Adelaide

Dietary change is important in diabetes management. But, making these changes can be challenging with limited access to support, especially in rural and remote areas.  

This study will pair technology and telehealth dietetics services to improve health outcomes for people living with type 2 diabetes, and reduce burden for patients and the health system. 

Prof Stacey George – Improving healthcare in the northern suburbs
Flinders University 

Adelaide’s northern suburbs is one of the fastest growing regions in the state, but many people who live there have long-term health issues and struggle to access the support they need. 

Bringing together people with chronic conditions and care providers, this project will co-design a model that enhances health outcomes and quality of life for this population.