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Ageing and Health

We're helping to create a world in which we all live better, for longer. From understanding rare diseases to multi-morbidity and ageing, we are helping to improve health and wellbeing for all.

Living better for longer

As people live longer and fertility rates decline, the proportion of older people in the population increases. This demographic shift has implications for healthcare, social care, the economy, and society as a whole. 

We're also becoming more aware of the diseases that can affect our quality of life in later years. These diseases may be avoidable if we take better care of ourselves. 

Health inequalities in society persist as a result of various factors. These include socioeconomic status, race, and access to healthcare. Disparities lead to differential health outcomes, limited healthcare access, and unequal distribution of resources. This highlights the need for targeted interventions to address and reduce these inequalities. 

We're helping to shape positive change in society across ageing and health, for the benefit of all. 

Meet Chloe, who received pioneering treatment for rare kidney disease

Meet Chloe, a HR Assistant who was diagnosed with Atypical Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome (aHUS) – a very rare genetic disease which can lead to kidney failure.

Pioneering research led by Newcastle University, and Professor David Kavanagh, has confirmed the effectiveness of the drug Eculizumab in preventing kidney failure for those with aHUS. This treatment has had a life-changing impact on Chloe’s quality of life, her future, and her hope to start a family.

Stronger together - collaboration is key to improved
ageing and health

National Innovation Centre for Ageing

We host the National Innovation Centre for Ageing. It develops products and services which create a world in which we live better, for longer. 

The centre is also home to its sister organisation VOICE®, a unique citizen engagement network. Members share their lived experience to focus research and drive innovation. 

NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre

Our NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) partners with both Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust. It is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). Its research drives forward health improvements in ageing and multiple long-term conditions. 

We have a long history of excellence in translational research. We’re one of a small number of university and NHS partnerships to have been awarded NIHR BRC status in every funding round since 2007. 

There are 20 BRCs across England. The Newcastle Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre is the only centre dedicated to the study of ageing and multiple long-term conditions. It converts lab-based research into benefits for patients, the public, and the health and care system. 

Academic Health Science Centre 

As part of Newcastle Health Innovation Partners, we’re one of only eight Academic Health Science Centres in the UK.  

The centre focusses on the health issues and medical needs of 3.2 million people in the North East and Cumbria. It brings together the region’s world-class research, education, and clinical practice.  

Excellence in medicine

Our School of Medicine is one of the largest integrated medical teaching and hospital complexes in the UK. Our medical school covers the North East of England and Cumbria, including Clinical Learning centres across all NHS trusts. 

The school generates high-quality research in clinical, medical, and medical sciences education. Its research improves practice, deepens understanding and informs policy.  

Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia 

Newcastle University Medicine (NUMed) Malaysia delivers high-quality medical and biomedical education. We are the first UK university to establish a fully owned international branch campus for medicine and biomedical sciences.  

NUMed Malaysia’s research focusses on applied health, cancer, and medical education. 

Reducing inequalities in ageing societies

Through research and education, we help improve the health and wellbeing of older people.  

Our Centre for Ageing and Inequalities investigates how biological, social, cultural, behavioural and environmental factors contribute to inequalities in later life.   

The heart of our mission lies in improving the management and outlook for cancer patients across the globe.

Professor Steven Clifford

Chair of Molecular Paediatric Oncology & Director, Newcastle University Centre for Cancer