Dinh Bui, PhD Candidate, Allergy and Lung Health Unit, CEB

CEB PhD Completion Seminar

Location: Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, Seminar Room 515, L5, 207 Bouverie St, CARLTON VIC 3053

Principle supervisor: Prof Shyamali Dharmage

Co-supervisors: Dr John Burgess, Dr Minh Bui, Dr Caroline Lodge

This thesis investigated risk factors for and consequences of lung function impairment throughout the lifespan in the Tasmanian Longitudinal Health Study. Childhood lung function and profiles of childhood respiratory risk factors were found to predict COPD. Six distinct trajectories of lung function were identified over the 1^st six decades of life. These had different risks of subsequent COPD and were influenced by childhood factors. Adult factors were found to interact with genetic and childhood factors on lung function decline. These findings highlight the importance of and opportunities for a life course strategy to promote lung health and prevent lung diseases.