Cardiovascular disease is the class of diseases that involve the heart or blood vessels (arteries and veins). While the term technically refers to any disease that affects the cardiovascular system, it is usually used to refer to those related to atherosclerosis (arterial disease). Most countries face high and increasing rates of cardiovascular disease. Each year, heart disease kills more Americans than cancer. It is the number one cause of death and disability in the United States and most European countries (data available through 2005). A large histological study showed vascular injury accumulates from adolescence, making primary prevention efforts necessary from childhood. Recent studies also indicate a trend linking environmental air pollution to cardiovascular disease; apart from smoking. By the time that heart problems are detected, the underlying cause (atherosclerosis) is usually quite advanced, having progressed for decades. There is therefore increased emphasis on preventing atherosclerosis by modifying risk factors. LOAM has entered into a partnership with the Cardiovascular Research Institute Singapore to develop cardiovascular biomarkers for the effective testing of patient blood samples in a clinical setting. LOAM's contribution will be in providing technologies that enable small liquid volume management with optical sensing.
[Contact  Tuck for more details].