Dr Kerry Ettridge (B Psych Hons; PhD, Medicine) is Deputy Director, Health Policy Centre at SAHMRI. Dr Ettridge is behavioural scientist leading research to address the health risk behaviours that contribute to increased risk of chronic disease, and psychosocial responses to diagnosis and treatment of cancer. She has extensive experience in conducting both quantitative and qualitative consumer-focused research, in collaboration with consumers, clinicians and data custodians. Her work incorporates behavioural, public health and quality of life approaches to improve well-being (both physical and psychosocial) and reduce risk of chronic disease.

Dr Ettridge’s work is focused on understanding behavioural risk reduction for chronic disease. Dr Ettridge is currently involved in projects to underpin and support change in the consumption of sweetened beverages, products that are high in sugar with limited nutritional value. Consuming these products increases overall energy intake, and consumption has been associated with increased risk of obesity, type II diabetes, periodontal disease, dental caries and cardiovascular disease. This work provides insight into the drivers of consumption, and provides evidence to underpin policy-level interventions, such as labelling, tax or health levies, restricting marketing practices and reducing availability, to support consumers in making healthier choices. 

Dr Ettridge is also involved in projects in psychosocial responses to cancer and treatment, specifically in the areas of breast and prostate cancer, and help-seeking. She is interested in the best ways to monitor these outcomes to inform treatment decision making and improvement of services, and understanding barriers to and facilitators of acquiring support to enable better quality of life and well-being.