Research team contacts

Principal Researcher:

Distinguished Professor Lyn Griffiths, School of Biomedical Sciences, QUT

Research Centre / Group:

Centre for Genomics and Personalised Health

What is the purpose of this research?

Very few studies have looked at the genetic factors that impact health specifically in Pasifika communities. Therefore, the aim of this study is to better understand how genes and other health measurements relate to certain conditions in Pasifika people living in Australia. While this study focuses on metabolic and inflammatory conditions such as diabetes, gout, kidney disease, and obesity, findings that result from it could also help us understand other diseases.

The researchers involved in this study are also interested in what the information contained in genetics can tell us about the historical movements, environments, and connections to surrounding peoples of Pasifika communities. This information can be useful for understanding how best to analyse the genetic and health data, where and how the health impacts may be most important, as well as providing insight into how applicable other genetic studies might be to Pasifika people.

Are you looking for people like me?

You can participate in the study if you:

  • are aged 18 years and older
  • identify as Pasifika ancestry (including but not limited to participants from Samoa, Fiji, Aotearoa NZ, Tonga and the Cook Islands)
  • are living in Greater Brisbane (e.g. Brisbane, Ipswich, Logan City, Moreton Bay, and Redland City).

What will you ask me to do?

  • Fasting blood and urine samples, body measurements, blood pressure.
  • Non-invasive tests for muscle, eye, and lung function.
  • Health history questionnaire.

Are there any risks for me in taking part?

We believe there are no major risks if you take part in this study, however you may experience minor bruising, feel faint, or (rarely) get an infection from the blood draw. A trained clinician will be present and best-practice procedures are used to keep risk low.

There is a small risk of a privacy breach. If you withdraw, you may not be able to fully 'take back' data/samples already used in completed analyses.

Are there any benefits for me in taking part?

You'll receive:

  • a free health check summary
  • an optional copy of key lab results
  • $50 gift card to compensate for time and travel.

You'll also be part of genetics research contributing to understanding Pasifika health.

The Genomics Research Centre’s commercial partner, Variant Bio, also provides short and long-term financial support to community selected organisations. Variant Bio has pledged to:

  • provide up to USD $100,000 (total) in support of participating Pasifika communities once sample collection is complete
  • share 4% of their annual revenue/equity for investment back into communities that participate in Variant Bio’s research initiatives, including Pasifika communities.

Payments under this pledge will be made to organisations that support local health, environment, education, and/or culture-related initiatives in participating Pasifika communities. Organisations will be chosen in collaboration with participating Pasifika communities.

Learn more about the commitment

Will I be compensated for my time?

To recognise the time involved and help cover travel costs, you will be offered a $50 gift card (e.g. Coles and Myer Group) following your participation in the study.

I am interested - what should I do next?

If you are interested in participating or have any questions, contact the clinic on 0483 786 783 or via email pasifikahealth@qut.edu.au.

You can also visit us at our clinic located at 10/90 Wembley Road, Logan Central, QLD 4114.

QUT Ethics Number: 9891