'Rare' gene common in African descendants, may contribute to heart disease
Tuesday, November 26, 2013 - 12:00
in Health & Medicine
Researchers have found that a genetic variation that is linked to increased levels of triglycerides -- fats in the blood associated with disorders such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity and stroke -- is far more common than previously believed and disproportionally affects people of African ancestry. Investigators say their discovery reinforces the need to screen this population for high levels of triglycerides to stave off disease.