Population studies and genetic epidemiology in Northeast Quebec

SOREP is an Inter-University research center dealing with population issues in northeastern Quebec. Since 1972 researchers have been working on the development of a computerized genealogical database covering the period from the beginning of the white settlements up to the present time....Focusing on the regions of Saguenay and Charlevoix this paper provides an overview of the work carried out with respect to the database itself (data computerized record linkage database management system) and the research being done in demographic and social history population genetics and genetic epidemiology....This paper also describes attempts to set up an original epidemiological approach based on a combination of population studies (search for gene subdivisions) genealogical inference and genetic markers in order to provide genetic counselling with enriched information. The legal and ethical issue is also addressed. (SUMMARY IN FRE) (EXCERPT)