Experts on the causes and prevention of diabetes and cardiovascular disease met this week at a symposium organised by Unilever Research and Development and the Singapore agency for Science, Technology and Research, A Star.
The symposium, held at Biopolis, Singapore, aimed to understand the health challenges associated with modern lifestyles in Asia. It brought together a total of 250 delegates with academic researchers mixing with representatives of public health bodies, NGOs and private companies, all of whom keen to work together to develop insights into how to reduce the impact of these diseases on the health and wealth of Asian countries.
Nearly 80% of people with diabetes are in developing countries; with India and China occupying the top 2 places of countries with the highest number of diabetic persons. Predictions are that the problem will only get worse in the next 20 years. Sir Prof. Gluckman from the University of Auckland explained "Asians appear to be particularly susceptible to these diseases and are becoming ill at a younger age and a lower body mass index than other ethnic groups." The reasons for this epidemic are uncertain and are yet to be fully understood.
Symposium delegates enjoyed a rich scientific programme with contributions from leading researchers in the field from both the region and worldwide. But the aims of the symposium extended beyond sharing information. "Our aim was to seek opportunities for Unilever to partner and collaborate with the best international and local experts in this field" said Jim Crilly (EVP Unilever Research) who went on to explain "Unilever as a major manufacturer in the fast moving consumer goods sector seeks to use its brands, R&D and innovations to make Asian consumers lives healthier and happier everyday." The symposium was also attended by Unilever Chief R&D Officer, Geneviève Berger who added "We are looking for partners who are attracted by our ability to bring innovative products to the market, our heritage in influencing positive consumer behaviour change and our new approach to open innovation."
Unilever has a long tradition of expertise in health and nutrition, and following this symposium the research and development function will decide how the diabetes and cardiovascular health challenge in Asia will shape its research programme in the next few years.
Source: Unilever R&D, AlphaGalileo Foundation.