Thursday 3 August 2023

Media Release

The National Ageing Research Institute is proud to announce that Senior Research Fellow, Dr Anita Goh has joined the Alzheimer’s Association ISTAART Advisory Council.

Established 15 years ago, the International Society to Advance Alzheimer's Research and Treatment (ISTAART) is an inclusive network of global scientists, clinicians and professionals, sharing a common goal: the pursuit of knowledge, collaboration and breakthroughs in order to find more effective ways to detect, treat, and prevent Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

Dr Goh is an clinician-researcher and senior research fellow at the National Ageing Research Institute, with extensive expertise in mental health, cognition, aging and dementia.

The only Australian council member, Dr Goh will provide expertise and advice on the direction and initiatives undertaken by ISTAART, and help ensure the more than 10,000 members across 110 countries are supported and empowered to continue their valuable work.

Dr Goh says the council enhances collaboration across the global research community, and greater insight into international dementia research will allow better knowledge and awareness of advancements that can be applied to dementia care in Australia.

“I’m delighted to join the ISTAART Advisory Council and have the opportunity to share the work being done at NARI, and also learn from the experiences of other researchers, academics, clinicians, people in policy and industry, and from the people impacted by dementia,” Dr Goh said.

“Transforming how we identify and treat dementia won’t come from an individual, but from a collective effort, and ISTAART is an incredibly strong network of experts dedicated to doing just that. I’m excited for what we can continue achieve together.”

“I am looking forward to providing expertise and advice on ISTAART directions and initiatives, and to ensure ISTAART supports the diversity and expertise to advance dementia science and advance careers.”

In 2023, there are more than 400,000 Australians living with dementia. Without a medical breakthrough, the number of people with dementia is expected to increase to more than 800,000 by 2058.

NARI Director, Professor Briony Dow, says as the number of people affected by dementia continues to grow — in Australia and internationally — bolstering global partnerships becomes increasingly important.

“Dementia is borderless, and being able to share ongoing projects, research, and findings will enable widespread change to happen sooner, rather than later,” Professor Dow said.

“We’re incredibly proud of Dr Goh, and her ongoing commitment to this field. This appointment is a testament to her dedication to research, empowering other researchers in their own work, and improving the lives of those impacted by dementia.”

Dr Anita Goh is available for interview.

Media Contact: Olivia Joyce – 0448 129 595