Major genetics study targets community health gaps

A new study has been launched to boost research into health conditions that affect South Asian communities at "significantly higher rates", say investigators.

The Genes & Health study aims to understand how genes influence health, improve diagnosis and treatments, as well as ensure communities are represented in genomic research.

British Pakistani and Bangladeshi residents in Wolverhampton and Walsall have been invited to take part.

"The research we do today will make an enormous impact on the lives of people for generations to come, which is why we want to support as many people as possible from these two communities to get involved," said Mr Fahad Hossain of Walsall Manor Hospital.

Hossain, who is a consultant and director of research and development added: "Understanding how our genes can influence health and disease can pave the way for major changes in prediction, diagnosis and treatment.

"Research can be completely life-changing and we want to ensure we help people to lead healthy lives as long as they possibly can."

The study is led by Queen Mary University of London which has partnered with Trusts across the country including The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust and Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust.

It has been developed to provide researchers with information to address why British Bangladeshi and Pakistani populations appear to experience significantly higher rates of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and poorer health outcomes overall, investigators said.

Volunteers will be asked to provide a saliva sample for researchers to study DNA and complete two short forms.

Some participants may then be invited to take part in additional studies to get a more detailed understanding of particular health conditions.

Professor Tonny Veenith, clinical director of research for The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust said: "We're proud that our two Trusts can play their part in this study which is one of the world's largest community‑based genetic studies.

"Most big genetic research studies have been conducted with people from European backgrounds – this one is specifically aimed at British Bangladeshi and British Pakistani people, so we can gain a greater understanding of how to improve their health."

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