We’re taking part in a research study to help find better treatments for diseases like diabetes and heart disease that will help improve health outcomes for people of South Asian heritage.

Anyone over the age of 16 who is Bangladeshi, British-Bangladeshi, Pakistani or British-Pakistani can participate. The study, called Genes & Health, is open to all members of these communities, regardless of previous health conditions.

South Asian people have some of the highest rates of heart disease, diabetes and poor health in the UK. By answering a short one-page questionnaire about health and lifestyle, and providing a saliva (spit) sample you could help improve clinical research and develop treatments.

Ben Sartoris, a Communications Officer in our Research and Innovation department said:

The Genes & Health study offers members of our local communities the opportunity to improve healthcare for people of South Asian heritage.

By contributing to clinical research, even in small ways, we can make huge strides in delivering better care for our patients, backed by medical data that supports what we do.

In aid of this study, our Research team is hosting a stall outside the main entrance at Queen’s Hospital on Tuesday 12 August where participants can sign up.

If you’d like to participate but are unable to get to the stall, please email Tina Mills-Baldock, our Senior Clinical Research Nurse, for more information.