The HELIUS study
The HELIUS study is a prospective cohort study on health and health care among an urban multi-ethnic population. The aim of the HELIUS study is to gain insight in the biological, psychological and social causes of the unequal burden of disease across ethnic groups, and ultimately enable the improvement of health care and prevention strategies. The study is being carried out in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and is an initiative of the Academic Medical Center (AMC) and the Public Health Service of Amsterdam (GGD Amsterdam).
The study focusses on three primary research areas:
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Cardiovascular diseases (including diabetes)
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Mental health
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Infectious diseases
Baseline data collection took place in 2011-2015. Nearly 25.000 participants of Turkish, Moroccan, South-Asian Surinamese, African Surinamese, Ghanaian and Dutch origin were included in the study. Data were collected through a questionnaire/interview and a physical examination. Biological samples were obtained during study visits. In 2019 - 2021, all HELIUS participants will be invited for follow-up measurements. A physical examination will be performed, including the collection of biological samples.
For more information on the study design and baseline data collection, also see: