VicHealth researcher: David Dunstan

“Significant health benefits could be gained from getting inactive older adults to become active.”

Associate Professor David Dunstan is developing a clearer picture of the influence of physical inactivity and television viewing on type 2 diabetes and obesity in older adults.

Contact Associate Professor Dunstan
Email: ddunstan@idi.org.au
Phone: +61 (03) 9258 5911
Website: www.diabetes.com.au

David is a Senior Research Fellow at the International Diabetes Institute – a not-for-profit research institution based in Melbourne. He is the creator of the Lift for Life strength training program – a specialised exercise program for people with type 2 diabetes.

Compared to younger age groups, type 2 diabetes and obesity are more common in adults aged over 55. Poor lifestyle, particularly a lack of physical activity, is a major contributor to the current ‘diabesity’ epidemic in older Australians.

David’s research program focuses on discovering the extent to which physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour (eg, television viewing) influence the development of these conditions. He will also be testing strategies to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviour in older adults.

An ageing population, together with increasing rates of type 2 diabetes and obesity, suggests that significant health benefits could be gained from encouraging inactive older adults to become active. His research is expected to provide more complete information on the merits of reducing sedentary behaviour and promoting physical activity to reduce the diabetes and obesity burden in older adults.

David believes that VicHealth’s support is important to his research. The Fellowship is enabling him to consolidate his research career and supports the opportunity to establish collaborations and communicate his findings more effectively.