Approved Research

Exploring Novel Lifestyle Risk Factors and Genetic Interactions in the Onset and Progression of Common Noncommunicable Chronic Diseases: A Multifaceted Approach

Lay summary

Globally, the prevalence of common diseases such as dementia, cardiometabolic and kidney diseases, as well as cancers, pose significant public health challenges. The onset and progression of these chronic diseases are intrinsically influenced by genetic predispositions, lifestyle factors emerging postnatally, and the complex interactions between them. Despite this understanding, there remains a substantial knowledge gap regarding novel modifiable factors that could potentially thwart the development of these diseases, and deeper insights into the co-effects of genes and postnatal lifestyle factors are warranted.

This project embarks on a comprehensive exploration of new risk factors encompassed in the realms of diet, lifestyle, natural environment, mental status, blood markers, physical measurements, and medical history. It further seeks to elucidate whether genes in concert with these factors could jointly orchestrate the development of common human diseases. Utilizing innovative analytical methodologies, the project will scrutinize the causal effect of amendable risk factors on a spectrum of diseases including cardiovascular and renal conditions, metabolic diseases, dementia, and cancers.

Scheduled for a span of 36 months, this project endeavors to leverage the full cohort of the UK Biobank data, presenting a robust platform for a nuanced understanding of disease mechanisms. The anticipated findings are poised to significantly augment the existing preventive and therapeutic strategies for common complex diseases, thereby contributing to the broader public health discourse.