The Harveian Oration is a yearly lecture, followed by a dinner and one of the oldest traditions of the Royal College of Physicians (RCP).

Established in 1656 by William Harvey, who discovered the principle of the circulation of the blood through the body, the tradition continues each year with a leading doctor or scientist invited to speak on issues relating to their field of work.

Prestigious honour

More than 150 RCP fellows, members and guests gathered to hear NIHR Newcastle BRC Director and Ageing, Sarcopenia and Multi-morbidity theme co-lead Professor Avan Aihie Sayer give the 2024 Harveian Oration on ‘From bench to bedside and beyond: new horizons for translational ageing research.’

Professor Sayer said: "It was an honour to give this year’s Harveian Oration.

"Ageing happens to everyone fortunate to live long enough but historically it has proved challenging to understand and influence. This is now changing with breakthroughs emerging across scientific disciplines including the biology of ageing, clinical trials for older people and life course epidemiology.

"We are poised for an exciting era of translational ageing research with opportunities to build an interdisciplinary clinical and academic community, develop national initiatives, involve patients and the public, and link closely to the needs of the NHS."

The 2024 Harveian Oration is now available to watch on demand on RCP Player.

'Truly inspirational lecture'

RCP senior censor and vice president for education and training, Dr Mumtaz Patel, who is acting as president, said: “I want to thank Professor Avan Aihie Sayer for sharing her expertise and insights on this emerging field.

“I thoroughly enjoyed listening to such a fascinating and truly inspirational lecture.”

 Press release adapted with thanks to RCP