Dr. Aqsa Kiran

Southampton General Hospital,
United Kingdom

Abstract Title: Risk factors associated with the onset of type 2 diabetes in Generation Z in the United Kingdom

Biography:

Dr. Aqsa Kiran has completed her MSc in Public Health & Community Wellbeing at the age of 28 years from Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, United Kingdom. She is currently working as a Foundation Fellow 2 Doctor at Southampton General Hospital in Cancer Care department. She has published this Systematic Review in a peer reviewed journal ‘The Evidence Public Health’

Research Interest:

Diabetes mellitus, particularly Type 2 diabetes (T2D), poses a growing public‐health challenge among UK Generation Z (born 1997–2012), driven in part by rising obesity rates. This systematic review aimed to: (1) examine how genetic predisposition, ethnic background and dietary patterns each contribute to obesity in Gen Z; (2) assess the combined effect of these factors on T2D risk; (3) identify gaps in research on gene–diet–ethnicity interactions in this cohort; and (4) inform culturally sensitive, genetics‐informed preventive strategies. We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar (2015–2024), following PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies addressed UK Gen Z individuals, reported data on genetic variants, ethnicity, and/or food‐consumption trends, and measured obesity or T2D outcomes. Methodological quality was appraised using CASP checklists. Out of 135 records screened, 13 studies met inclusion criteria. Evidence indicates that specific gene variants (e.g. those affecting insulin sensitivity), together with ethnic‐linked metabolic profiles—particularly among South Asian and African‐Caribbean groups—interact with dietary behaviors (high intake of ultra‐processed and carbohydrate‐rich foods) to elevate obesity and T2D risk. Sociocultural influences, digital‐media exposure and socioeconomic status further shape eating patterns and sedentary lifestyles. Critical gaps include limited longitudinal data on Gen Z gene–environment interplay and underrepresentation of certain ethnic subgroups. Our findings underscore the need for early, tailored interventions that integrate genetic risk profiling with culturally appropriate dietary guidance and public‐health education. Future research should prioritize longitudinal, multiethnic cohorts to refine prevention strategies and mitigate the rising burden of obesity‐driven T2D in UK Generation Z.