Most people globally face 'high genetic risk' for three common diseases: Study
A new study published in Genome Medicine suggests that most people globally carry a high genetic risk for at least three out of 28 common diseases, including diabetes and schizophrenia. Researchers analyzed data from nearly one million individuals to map the 'average' human genome.
Why it matters
Understanding that genetic risk is widespread helps shift the focus from 'at-risk' individuals to population-wide health strategies and personalized medicine.
Most people globally face 'high genetic risk' for three common diseases: Study left Every person’s genome, or the average human genome, contains around five million variants, or DNA locations that differ between individuals, the findings published |Image used for representational purpose only AP AP https://th-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/383z15/article71627052.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/Argentina_Disapeared_88863.jpg RODRIGO ABD Biochemists work in a laboratory where the Argentine Forensic Anthropology Team conducts DNA tests to identify people who disappeared during Argentina's last military dictatorship, in Cordoba, Argentina, Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd) The team analysed data from two major population biobanks that include whole genome sequencing, covering nearly one million individuals New Delhi, Oct 23 (PTI) Most people worldwide could be categorised as having a high genetic risk for three of 28 common conditions, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and schizophrenia, even if they might not develop them, a new study has found.
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