Scientists in New Zealand are hoping a new project to develop the use of cutting edge genetic research will improve woeful health problems in the country's Pacific people.
Hospitalisation rates for Pacific people are about double that of the general population; they have twice the rate of diabetes and are eight times more likely to be admitted to hospital for rheumatic fever.
The Maurice Wilkins Centre is a grouping of 500 scientists and clinicians and it's teaming up with a Pacific health provider north of Wellington - Pacific Health Plus - to take the research to the next level.
The centre's deputy director Professor Peter Shepherd told Sally Round it's a ground-breaking project.
Photo: AFP / Cultura Creative
