Event shines spotlight on genetic heart disease in young people

The centrepiece of the event was a panel discussion featuring both expert and lived-experience perspectives.

Attendees heard from the team at the Centenary Institute’s Centre for Cardiovascular Research on their work into the genetic causes of heart conditions, as well as the clinical support available to families affected by these disorders. Also involved were the Bellingham family, who shared their traumatic experience of losing a loved one to sudden cardiac death.

The panel featured:

• Associate Professor Richard Bagnall, Head of the Centre for Cardiovascular Research
• Dr Charlotte Burns, Genetic Counsellor
• Meg and Adrian Bellingham, who spoke about their son Aaiden, who died at age 24 due to a sudden cardiac episode

The event highlighted the devastating fact that up to three young Australians under the age of 35 die each week from sudden cardiac death. Associate Professor Bagnall said that Centenary Institute researchers are working to uncover the genetic causes behind these tragic events. By identifying underlying genetic issues, Centenary scientists hope to enable earlier diagnoses, improve risk assessment for family members and ultimately develop targeted therapies to prevent further loss of life.

Coinciding with the event was the Centenary Institute’s inaugural Giving Day with a  spotlight on inherited heart disease and its impact on families and the community. The campaign successfully raised over $120,000 in vital funds for research and clinical support in this critical health area.

The Centenary Institute thanks all event speakers, attendees and donors for supporting this important area of research. In particular, the Institute acknowledges the Bellingham family, who not only shared their personal story of sudden cardiac loss but who have also become passionate research advocates, raising awareness and vital funds to help prevent similar tragedies from taking place in other families.