Exploiting the potential offered by the increasing computerisation of health records for population based research. (360G-Wellcome-098504_Z_12_Z)

Laboratory research has demonstrated the importance of inflammation in cardiovascular disease. Translating this knowledge into benefits for human health presents a huge challenge. We propose an innovative programme of translational research exploiting the extraordinary opportunities for offered by electronic health records. The first key goal is to integrate randomised controlled trials into clinical care utilising electronic health records. We will then test the hypothesis that preventive in terventions targeted at periods of high vascular risk could have large absolute benefits by undertaking a randomised trial of a short course of statin treatment at a time of heightened risk. We will also undertake a programme of rigorous observational studies. The key goals are: (i) Quantifying the risk of vascular disease and developing valid risk prediction tools for people with a range of chronic inflammatory disorders. (ii) Assessing the risk of vascular events following acute ex acerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and how such risk could be mitigated. (iii) Establishing whether herpes zoster vaccine reduces the risk of acute vascular events following herpes zoster. The proposed work will lead to step changes in translating knowledge of inflammation in vascular disease and establish optimal approaches for scientific enquiry using electronic health records.