Singapore: Senior scientists from Australia and China are meeting at the Australian Academy of Science on July 23 and 24 to examine the latest developments in genomics, stem cell research and smart technologies designed to extend life and promote healthy ageing.

Researchers at the Ninth Annual Australia-China symposium will examine the diseases of ageing and present the latest advances in strategies to control infectious diseases, regenerative medicine, genomics, medical bionics and nanotechnology.

"There's a large and escalating burden of chronic diseases related to ageing," said Professor Bob Williamson, Australian Academy of Science Secretary for Science Policy.

The UN estimates just four of the diseases associated with ageing, diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular and chronic respiratory diseases, cost an average of $500 billion per year to low- and middle-income countries.

"It's important to use our best scientific knowledge to help implement intervention strategies to reduce the burden of these diseases," said Prof Williamson.