The South Asian Genes and Health in Australia (SAGHA) study
Genomics research and population diversity:
The vast majority of genomics data (around 86%) are from studies of people from European ancestry. The lack of ancestry diversity means that the benefits of genomics testing do not translate well into non-European populations.
The Australian population is diverse, with recent data showing that Australians identify with more than 270 ancestries. Genomics is increasingly used in our healthcare. Therefore, it is critical that we address the lack of ancestry diversity to ensure the benefits of genomic research are equally shared.
About SAGHA:
Current risk calculators to assess heart disease in Australia underestimates risk in South Asians. This means that high-risk individuals of South Asian ancestry may not be receiving adequate support required for disease prevention.
The SAGHA study aims to address the lack of diversity in health and genomic research, and improve accuracy of heart disease risk in South Asians by:
Engaging with the Queensland South Asian community and holding focus group discussions on their views regarding genomic research and heart health
Developing a recruitment protocol for genomics research to support increased participation of people from South Asian ancestry
Recruiting 200 individuals to a pilot study assessing traditional and genetic risk factors for cardiovascular disease
Visit: https://saghaus.org/ for more information
Contact us: sagha@uq.edu.au
Research outputs
Conference presentations:
The South Asian Genes and Health in Australia (SAGHA) Study – reducing the diversity gap in health and genomics research” Poster presentation at the International Congress of Genetics, Melbourne July 2023
“It’s about us: A qualitative exploration of South Asian community attitudes towards genomic research” Oral presentation at the Human Genetics Society of Australasia Special Interest Group Meeting, Melbourne November 2023
In the news:
Funding
This study is funded by a Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF), Genomics Health Futures Mission grant