Fiji Heart Study
A world-first genetic study of premature coronary artery disease for Peoples of Fiji.
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RESOURCES AND KEY DEFINITIONS
Explore our study information and resources.
Resources
Key Definitions
Genetic factors: This is information about specific genes in a person’s DNA. It tells us about specific traits a person may have inherited from their parents.
Genomic data: This is information about all the DNA in a human, including all their genes and other parts of their DNA. It helps us understand how the human body works and how it might be affected by diseases.
Coronary artery disease: Coronary artery disease is when the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart get clogged or narrowed, making it harder for blood to reach the heart.
Clinically verified genetic diagnosis: A confirmed result from a genetic test that doctors use to understand and manage your health.
Important and actionable genetic findings: Important genetic information that doctors can use right away to help manage your health, such as deciding on treatments, monitoring your condition, or taking preventive measures.
National Health Index (NHI) number: is a unique identifier assigned to every individual who uses health and disability support services in New Zealand. It helps streamline the management of healthcare records and ensures that healthcare providers can access accurate information about patients. For more information, click here.
Primary outcomes of this research: The primary (main) goal of this research is to identify genetic factors that cause early coronary artery disease among the Peoples of Fiji. We are analysing genomic data to find specific genetic factors linked to coronary heart disease. These genetic discoveries are not guaranteed, but if found could be crucial for medical treatment (i.e., important and actionable), and we will inform you through your nominated doctor if we find such information.
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Please note that our study is for research purposes and cannot provide a confirmed diagnosis. However, if we discover important and actionable genetic findings, we will notify your nominated doctor so you can decide on the next steps. If you choose to receive a clinically verified diagnosis, your doctor will refer you to NZ Genetic Health Services to confirm and verify the genetic finding and to receive appropriate support, including genetic counselling.
Secondary or incidental findings: Genetic findings that are not related to the primary outcomes of this research, but are important and actionable. We are not specifically looking for these, and are not guaranteed, but we might find them during our analysis. If you consent to knowing this information, we will notify you through your doctor of such findings so you can decide on the next steps.
