England’s Chief Medical Officer praised a pioneering new research institute we’re helping deliver that could transform the early detection and prevention of disease.
Professor Sir Chris Whitty visited the University of Sunderland where The Northern Ophthalmic Research and Innovation Institute (NORI) is based.
NORI brings together three North East universities, the NHS and regional partners to transform how diseases are detected and prevented.
The £4.2 million institute will place eye health technology at the heart of a joined-up data approach, helping researchers and clinicians better understand disease risk and development.
Professor Whitty met researchers and partners to hear how the programme will use eye health data in new ways.
His visit marks an important step as the institute moves towards its official launch later this year.
Routine eye scans, commonly carried out by opticians and eye clinics, can reveal early signs of serious conditions including heart disease, diabetes, dementia and stroke, often years before symptoms appear.
However, this data is often stored separately from other medical records, meaning opportunities for early disease detection and intervention can be missed.
NORI aims to change that by creating a joined-up system that supports earlier diagnosis and more personalised care.
This could mean earlier treatment and better health outcomes for patients.
We’re playing a key role in this pioneering collaboration.
Working with colleagues at the universities of Sunderland and Newcastle, and the NHS, our researchers are contributing expertise in data science, health research and disease prevention.
Our contribution focuses on helping to unlock the full potential of this data, ensuring it is used responsibly and effectively to improve lives.
Researchers from our departments of Mathematical Sciences, Computer Science, Physics and Engineering will lead work that uses data and AI to better understand patterns of health and disease.
During his visit to NORI, Professor Whitty praised the shared ambition behind the project.
He said: “I was delighted to have the opportunity to visit NORI, and to hear more about their innovative research programme.
“Meeting the team, I was struck by the strength of the cross-sector partnerships, and the shared vision, that makes this research possible.
“I look forward to following NORI’s progress as they advance their ambitious research agenda.”
Main image shows England’s Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Chris Whitty (third from left) with members of the NORI team.
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