GWAS of 8,000 Polynesian individuals maps cardiometabolic risk across under-represented populations
A meta-analysis published in PLOS Genetics identifies genetic associations with cardiometabolic traits in people of Hawaiian and Samoan ancestry, groups largely absent from prior large-scale genomic studies.
Researchers from the Samoan Obesity, Lifestyle and Genetic Adaptations (OLaGA) Study Group, along with collaborators at institutions including the University of Southern California, the University of Pittsburgh, and the University of Hawaii, have published a genome-wide association study (GWAS) meta-analysis covering more than 8,000 individuals of Hawaiian and Samoan ancestry in PLOS Genetics.
The study examined genetic associations with a range of cardiometabolic phenotypes — including measures of obesity, lipid levels, and metabolic function. Polynesian populations, including those from Samoa and Hawai'i, have historically been under-represented in large GWAS cohorts, which are heavily skewed towards individuals of European ancestry. The authors argue that this exclusion limits the transferability of polygenic risk scores and other genomic tools to these communities.
Among the study's contributions, the team identified population-specific and shared genetic signals relevant to cardiometabolic health, and assessed how findings from this cohort compare to associations previously identified in more commonly studied ancestry groups. The results illustrate the importance of including diverse global populations in genomic research, and the challenges — logistical and structural — that continue to impede such inclusion.
The work was conducted within the OLaGA study framework, with contributions from a broad multi-institutional group. It represents one of the largest genomic studies to date focused specifically on Pacific Islander populations.
Plain-language version
For patients, families, and general readers. Educational only — not medical advice.
Scientists studying the genetics of heart and metabolic health — conditions such as high cholesterol and obesity — have published findings from one of the largest genetic studies ever focused on people with Hawaiian and Samoan ancestry. The study, published in the journal PLOS Genetics, looked at the DNA of more than 8,000 people from these communities.
Most large genetic studies have focused on people of European ancestry, which means the findings do not always apply equally to people from other parts of the world. By studying Polynesian populations specifically, the researchers were able to identify genetic signals relevant to these communities and explore how inherited factors relate to cardiometabolic health.
The study does not change any current health recommendations, but it adds to a growing body of work aimed at making genetic research more representative of human diversity globally.
This is an educational summary, not medical advice. If anything here raises questions for you, please speak with your GP or a clinical professional.
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Primary source PLOS Genetics · 2026-10-21Meta-analysis of over 8,000 individuals from Hawai'i and Samoa for genetic associations to cardiometabolic phenotypes