The Colombo Twin and Singleton Study (COTASS): Piloting the Feasibility of Collecting Nutritional Data and Extension of the Sample to Include Children of Twins

• DOI: 10.1007/s10519-023-10171-w
• Publication Date: 2024-01-07T14:02:04Z
• Authors: Lasith Dissanayake; Binoli Herath; Janani Opatha; Sameeha Jabir; Rajindra Siriwardana; Kavish Sirisena; Malmi Wickramasinghe; Manouri Wimalasekera; Ruvini Liyanage; G. N. Duminda Guruge; Kaushalya Jayaweera; Ranil Jayawardena; Helena M. S. Zavos; Athula Sumathipala; Frühling Rijsdijk
• Keywords: Sri lanka

Nutrition and diet are key modifiable risk factors for the rising burden of non-communicable diseases like cardio-vascular diabetes in low- middle- income countries (LMICs). The nutritional transition dietary behaviours LMICs has most likely contributed to this problem. Although traditionally assumed be environmental, choices also genetically influenced. Twin study designs can used investigate relative influence genes environment on nutrition intake, eating associated psychological health. overall aim project is to: provide proof-of-concept feasibility using (biomarker) data within Children-of-Twin design studies, develop laboratory skills statistical genetic establish a Sri Lankan-specific food composition database. Currently, pilot being conducted with 304 individuals (38 Monozygotic twin pairs, 38 Dizygotic pairs their male or female adult offspring). Questionnaire behaviours, well-being, physical health, bio-specimens collected. A database was developed, training sessions macro micro element analysis biological samples genetics development were Community Engagement Involvement programs carried out two districts Lanka.