Monash leads landmark Lancet Commission to tackle Asia-Pacific cardiovascular crisis

Announced today in The Lancet, a major new Lancet Commission on Tackling Cardiovascular Disease in the Asia-Pacific, co-led by Monash University, will confront the region’s escalating burden of heart disease.

Home to more than 60 per cent of the world’s population, the Asia-Pacific is central to global cardiovascular risk. Deaths from cardiovascular related disease are projected to almost double in Asia by 2050, with profound impacts on patients, families, and health systems.

The Commission brings together a diverse, multidisciplinary group of 29 global experts, including Monash University’s Professor Stephen Nicholls, Director of the Victorian Heart Hospital and Victorian Heart Institute, alongside co-chair Professor Carolyn Lam from the Duke-National University of Singapore and SingHealth. Together they will lead an unprecedented collaboration to develop a region-specific roadmap for reducing premature cardiovascular mortality and improving health equity.

“Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, but the Asia-Pacific (APAC) faces unique challenges due to its diversity of cultures, health systems and economies,” Professor Nicholls said.

“Global strategies have too often failed to translate into meaningful outcomes in our region. This Commission will deliver tailored, scalable solutions, designed with and for APAC communities, that can change the trajectory of heart health.”

A roadmap for impact

The Commission’s initial work will map the impact and spread of heart disease in the APAC, identify barriers and inequities in prevention and care, and adapt successful international models to the region’s diverse contexts.

Areas of focus include:

  • Innovative preventive strategies
  • Broader implementation of evidence-based treatments
  • Emerging therapeutics and digital health innovations
  • Workforce development and community engagement
  • Addressing sociocultural and environmental determinants of heart health

Professor Nicholls said the Commission is also committed to amplifying the voices of early- and mid-career professionals, ensuring fresh perspectives and long-term momentum

“By collaborating with clinicians, researchers, policymakers, industry and community leaders, we can accelerate real-world impact to improve the health and well-being of millions, in the most populated region of the world,” he said.

The Lancet Commission reflects the strength of international partnerships, particularly between Monash University and the Duke-National University of Singapore and SingHealth - highlighting Australia’s growing role in global health leadership.

The Commission has been made possible by philanthropic support from the Stafford Fox Foundation and partial funding from SingHealth Duke-National University of Singapore Cardiovascular Sciences Academic Clinical Programme and the National Medical Research Council of Singapore.