By Newsbreak Producer Matthew Veeran - South African medical research is prioritizing the fight against cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes by focusing on the unique genetic profiles of its diverse populations. Professor Alisa Phulukdaree of the University of Pretoria is spearheading research into genetic and epigenetic factors, revealing the limitations of current treatment strategies based primarily on European genetic studies. Her work emphasizes the urgent need for a comprehensive South African genetic database to enable personalized medicine and more effective prevention. Notably, the research addresses the alarmingly high rates of coronary artery disease within South Africa's Indian population, aiming to rectify the current disparity in health care solutions. Professor Phulukdaree began by explaining why a treatment or prevention strategy that works for a European population might fail or be less effective here in SA...