A scoping review on cardiometabolic risk factors among Pacific Island populations and implications on future research in the region.

Indigenous populations in the Pacific are disproportionately burdened by cardiometabolic diseases compared to other populations, yet understanding of the underlying factors contributing to these health disparities remains limited. A combination of genetic and non-genetic risk factors contributes to cardiometabolic disease outcomes, but current reviews involving Pacific Island peoples are limited by geographical and demographic constraints. To address this, we conducted a scoping review that identified risk factors, with an emphasis on genetic factors associated with cardiometabolic diseases among Pacific Island populations (Polynesians, Melanesians, and Micronesians). We used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses framework for scoping reviews, utilizing MEDLINE (Ovid) and Web of Science (all databases). From March 2023, we identified population-based studies published in the last decade. A total of 1887 abstracts were screened, 114 full-text articles were reviewed, and a final 58 articles were included in our review. Within the last decade, genetic studies outnumbered non-genetic studies. Obesity, diabetes, and gout were the most prominent conditions researched. Melanesian and Micronesian populations were underrepresented in cardiometabolic disease research compared to Polynesians. The combination of non-genetic and genetic research has implications for developing equitable Pacific-centric interventions and treatment in the future.