Millions of Australians have insulin resistance, a silent condition that often has no symptoms. But left untreated it can lead to much more serious diseases like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and dementia. We now need your support to raise $25,000 to find out what causes this concerning condition.
This essential funding will support Dr Dino Premilovac and a team of expert researchers to investigate the relationship between air pollution and insulin resistance. In this world-first study, Dr Premilovac will look at the impacts of air pollution from vehicles and bushfire smoke and if it triggers insulin resistance.
Dr Premilovac explains that “studies from around the world show that living close to a major road or in highly polluted cities is associated with increased risk of developing obesity and insulin resistance, but we do not understand how or why this occurs.”
“Our work is the first of its kind and will investigate how air pollution alters the function of the hormone insulin in the body to cause insulin resistance,” he notes.
This study is particularly relevant to Tasmanians, who are often exposed to extremely high levels of air pollution from bushfire smoke and wood heaters. Tasmanians were exposed to extremely hazardous air particles during the 2020 bushfires when a thick cloud of smoke blanketed the state for weeks on end. We're further exposed to this air pollution during winter, as we sit by roaring wood fires to stay warm.
The Foundation’s CEO, Stephanie Furler, called for the Foundation community to give generously and support this essential project. “I encourage you to give generously and help us raise $25,000 to fund this life-saving campaign.”
“Not only will this research help change lives, but it will be instrumental in shaping public policy and support future research into other diseases that are affected by insulin resistance.”
Your donations will help support this life-saving research. Donate online today or call (03) 6166 1319.
