Genetic study emphasizes diversity in health disparities research among diverse populations.
- Researchers conducted a comprehensive genetic analysis across multiple populations using data from the Million Veteran Program (MVP) with diverse backgrounds to better understand genetic factors influencing health and disease.
- The study identified 26,049 associations between specific genetic variants and various traits or health conditions in 635,969 veterans, highlighting shared associations across diverse populations and elucidating pleiotropic genes driving multiple variant-trait associations.
- Population-specific genetic signals were discovered, such as a prostate cancer risk variant in African-American men and a novel gout risk variant in the African-American population group.
- The research found that while most genetic traits are similar between diverse groups, certain populations have unique genetic features, emphasizing the importance of including diverse genetic backgrounds in understanding health disparities.
- The study showcases the significance of biobanks like the MVP in generating new genetic association resources and insights, with implications for precision medicine and better care for veterans and broader populations.
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Genetic study, health disparities, diversity, Allergy & Clinical Immunology, Cardiology, Infectious Diseases, Internal Medicine, Nursing, Public Health & Prevention.