Aims:
This project aims to determine the impact of various lifestyle factors on the progression of cataract and joint diseases such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, while also investigating their associations with cardiovascular health.
Scientific Rationale:
Cataract, a leading cause of global vision impairment, and joint diseases, which significantly impact mobility and quality of life, are both influenced by lifestyle factors. Understanding the impact of sleep patterns, diet, physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, sunlight exposure, medication usage, body weight, and eye protection on the progression of cataracts and joint diseases is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of their causes. Moreover, recent evidence suggests potential connections between these conditions and cardiovascular health, warranting further exploration.
In addition to the already mentioned aspects impacting cataract progression, we will also explore factors specifically relevant to joint disease, such as occupational hazards, postural habits, and specific physical activities that may predispose individuals to joint problems. These factors will be analyzed in the context of their potential interplay with cataract and cardiovascular health.
By using the UK Biobank’s extensive data, including imaging modalities like MRI scans for joint analysis, we aim to unveil the complex relationships between these conditions. Our approach will integrate robust statistical methods and genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to assess genetic variations associated with cataract and joint diseases. Additionally, Mendelian randomization and multivariate regression analysis will be employed to identify plasma metabolites and protein signature molecules associated with these conditions.
Project Duration: 3 years
Public Health Impact:
This research will provide valuable insights into the interconnectedness of lifestyle factors, cataract, joint diseases, and cardiovascular health. Understanding these relationships will inform preventive strategies and clinical management, potentially reducing the burden of these widespread conditions.