Fish consumption and risk of cardiovascular disease in the Seychelles Child Development Study

Apply and key information

Summary

Dietary guidelines recommend at least 2 servings of fish per week for the prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD)^1,2. Fish is a rich source of the long chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which have been shown to favourably impact certain CVD risk markers, including plasma lipids and blood pressure^3,4. Recent meta-analyses have shown that eating fish at least twice a week can reduce mortality in patients with prior CVD⁵. Associations in general populations are less consistent, with most research conducted in low fish-consuming populations.

The Seychelles Child Development Study (SCDS) is an ongoing observational study (circa 30 years) of over 2500 mother-child pairs, based in the Republic of Seychelles, which is investigating the effects of prenatal fish consumption and methylmercury exposure on child development. The habitual diet in Seychelles is unique with respect to its high levels of fish consumption (up to 9 meals per week). However, the dietary patterns of this developing country are becoming more Westernised with a greater demand for convenient, processed foods⁶. It is known that the Seychelles is fast becoming one of the most obese African nations with CVD the main cause of adult mortality⁷.

The aim of this MRes project is to investigate the relationships between fish consumption and risk of cardiovascular disease in a high fish-eating population within the SCDS.

Objectives of the research:

To investigate changes in fish consumption over 30 years in the SCDS cohorts using existing data which span childhood up to 60 years of age.
To investigate associations between fish consumption and various risk factors for CVD in a high fish-eating population

Methods to be used:

This MRes will involve the student working closely with other PhD researchers in the ‘FISH’ research group. The student will be part of the international SCDS research team and will attend online meetings with collaborators based in the Seychelles, Sweden and the University of Rochester, US.

Across three cohorts of the SCDS (the Main Cohort, Nutrition Cohort I and Nutrition Cohort II), dietary information has been collected at various stages of the lifecycle using a combination of diet diaries, food frequency questionnaires (FFQ) and fish use questionnaires (FUQ). The data generated provide an estimate of semi-quantitative nutrient and food intakes (including fish), as well as qualitative data on food consumption patterns.

An extensive database exists on the cognitive development and physical health of the participants. Various markers of cardiovascular (CV) risk have been collected including blood pressure, heart rate variability, lipid profile, homocysteine and inflammatory markers. Body composition data collected in the SCDS include weight, % body fat, waist and hip circumferences.

The student will assist with entering and analyzing 4-day food diaries using Nutritics software. They will also perform statistical analysis and conduct a scientific literature review.

Skills required of applicant:

Good communication skills

Organisation and teamworking skills

Strong data analysis skills, with experience working with large databases

Good writing skills

Willingness to assist with laboratory work where required

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
A comprehensive and articulate personal statement
A demonstrable interest in the research area associated with the studentship

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

First Class Honours (1st) Degree
A comprehensive and articulate personal statement
Use of personal initiative as evidenced by record of work above that normally expected at career stage.
Applicants will be shortlisted if they have an average of 75% or greater in a first (honours) degree (or a GPA of 8.75/10). For applicants with a first degree average in the range of 70% to 74% (GPA 3.3): If they are undertaking an Masters, then the average of their first degree marks and their Masters marks will be used for shortlisting.
Relevant professional qualification and/or a Degree in a Health or Health related area

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.