Institute for Chronic Disease Research
Affecting one in four people, chronic disease places immense strain on whānau and communities, and contributes to health inequities that disproportionately impact Māori, Pacific peoples, and those experiencing socioeconomic disadvantages.
New Zealand needs a coordinated, transdisciplinary approach that focuses on prevention, effective management, and improved system performance.
This is the role of the Institute for Chronic Disease Research (ICDR).
Mission
To reduce the burden of chronic disease both on government, and on those living with these diseases, through research into prevention, management and cure.
Purpose
World-leading transdisciplinary research that will improve the lives of all New Zealanders through the prevention, management and cure of chronic disease
Why it matters
The annual cost to the New Zealand Government of cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal conditions, respiratory disease, diabetes and cancer is $36 billion, with an additional $7-9 billion lost each year through reduced workforce participation.
The ICDR will cover a range of chronic diseases (including but not limited to respiratory health, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and musculoskeletal conditions) but will drive innovation through the following world-leading research platforms:
- Clinical trials that transform care
- Preventative health solutions for healthier futures
- Mental health and wellbeing innovation
- AI and digital health technologies
- Advancing Māori and Pacific health equity
- Re-imaging health systems, workforce and service design
Impact
The ICDR will improve quality of life for people living with chronic conditions through better access to care, better and more effective management options, and plans that reduce long-term healthcare costs to families and society.
The initiative will contribute to more equitable health outcomes, particularly for Māori and Pacific communities, while supporting stronger workforce participation through a reduced burden of illness.
The ICDR will also help build a more resilient and sustainable health system and provide stronger evidence to inform government policy and decision-making.
Professor Ralph Maddison
Professor Ralph Maddison
Professor Ralph Maddison is the founding Director of the University of Waikato’s pioneering Institute for Chronic Disease Research, leading groundbreaking
work to transform how chronic disease is prevented and managed in New Zealand.
An internationally recognised leader in health innovation, Professor Maddison is at the forefront of designing and evaluating cutting-edge interventions
that empower people to live healthier lives. With an MSc (Hons) and PhD from the University of Auckland, his research has focused on tackling the root causes of chronic disease and developing innovative solutions that help people take control of their health - particularly through the power of
digital technologies.
Professor Maddison brings world class experience from leading research institutions, including the University of Auckland’s National Institute for Health Innovation and Deakin University’s Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition. His work is shaping the future of chronic disease prevention and management through bold ideas, evidence-based innovation, and practical solutions that deliver real-world impact for communities across New Zealand and beyond.
