One of The University of Western Australia’s top population health experts is one of only two Australians to secure a 2007 Fulbright Senior Scholarship.Professor Billie Giles-Corti will spend four months at Stanford University in California early next year establishing a collaborative research program on Active Living for older adults.
UWA Vice-Chancellor Alan Robson said the Fulbright was a prestigious scholarship and Professor Giles-Corti a very worthy winner.
“The scholarship recognises the internationally significant work Professor Giles-Corti has been conducting on issues of major population health concern, like the impact of the built environment on health, rising levels of obesity in adults and children and high levels of inactivity,” he said.
“The Fulbright gives her an opportunity to explore issues of mutual concern to both Australia and America, and also gives her the opportunity to forge links between UWA and one of the world’s great universities.”
Professor Giles-Corti said there was growing recognition of the link between the built environment and health and an urgent need to consider the housing and urban design needs of older adults.
“Research examining how to keep people active as they age is important to keep people out of hospitals and reduce pressure on the health system,” she said.
“Being active as you age reduces the risk of frailty and falls and provides an opportunity for people to interact with others, which helps people stay mentally healthy.”
While at Stanford, Professor Giles-Corti will work with Professor Abby King, who has an Active Ageing Lab.
“This is a fabulous opportunity to learn from others and very timely given establishing a multi-disciplinary Centre for the Build Environment and Health at UWA,” she said.
“I can return to Australia with new research collaborations and new ideas for research grants in an important and emerging area of research.”
MEDIA REFERENCE:
Professor Billie Giles-Corti 61 8 6488 1257
Simone Hewett / Francesca Robb 61 8 6488 7977
(UWA Public Affairs) 0420 790 097 / 0420 790 098