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Jan 21, 2008
The 'thrifty gene' hypothesis and indigenous health
The 'thrifty gene' hypothesis and indigenous health: 30 years ago geneticists came up with the 'thrifty gene' hypothesis - the idea that high rates of diabetes and obesity in indigenous populations could be explained by a gene specific to these groups. A study released by Australian and American researchers dispels the 'thrifty gene' hypothesis, suggesting that high rates of these chronic diseases are rooted in social disadvantage, rather than a genetic pre-disposition. But not everybody agrees with the study. This program was first broadcast on 7th May, 2007.
