New Commission charts bold plan to tackle heart disease in APAC region

Home to over 60% of the world’s population, the Asia-Pacific region carries a disproportionate share of global cardiovascular disease risk. Co-led by Monash University, a landmark Lancet Commission is preparing to confront the Asia-Pacific’s escalating cardiovascular epidemic – a crisis set to define the region’s health systems for decades to come.

By 2050, deaths from cardiovascular disease in the Asia-Pacific region are projected to almost double. The Commission unites 29 international experts from diverse disciplines to deliver what has long been missing: a region-specific roadmap to reduce premature cardiovascular mortality and drive health equity.

The effort is spearheaded by 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.

“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.”

The Commission’s first phase will map the true scale of cardiovascular disease across the region, identify barriers to access and care, and adapt proven international strategies to local realities.

Its work will centre on innovative preventive strategies, greater adoption of evidence-based treatments, the integration of emerging therapeutics and digital health innovations, as well as investment in workforce development and deeper engagement with communities. Central to its mission is also the recognition of sociocultural and environmental determinants of heart health, which play a critical role in shaping outcomes across diverse populations.

Professor Nicholls emphasised that the Commission is 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.

This Commission reflects the power of international partnerships, particularly between Monash University and the Duke-National University of Singapore and SingHealth. It also highlights Australia’s growing role in global health leadership, as the country contributes expertise and vision to solving one of the most urgent public health issues of the century.

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

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