The approach

We are applying our methods to look specifically at how chronic inflammation might explain the common occurrence of disease. Chronic inflammation is thought to be at the root of many diseases including cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease (such as arthritis) and dementia. Certain lifestyles (such as low levels of exercise, poor diet, and smoking) are thought to predispose to chronic inflammation. Inflammation can be controlled by both lifestyle interventions and drug treatments, so a better understanding of how inflammation is involved should provide an indication of how and when to intervene to prevent future disease.

We have secured access to datasets in which inflammation has been recorded over long periods, and are in the process of understanding how complete or consistent this information is.

By bringing our combined skills to bear on this problem, we are developing new approaches which are being used on large national and international datasets, resulting in new insights that will help prevent disease and improve population health.

Patients and the public are actively involved throughout this programme in a process of coproduction. Their involvement is crucial in helping us prioritise the work, interpret our findings and explain our messages to the wider public.