The above-described methods of cross-population aggregation and comparison rely on an assumption that complex diseases are phenotypically similar across global populations and that measurement of such disorders is culturally unbiased. Given that we know these assumptions are not always accurate, the best practical steps are to be aware of potential phenotypic and environmental differences across populations and involve multi-disciplinary teams with expertise in global societal determinants of health and cultural competency. Suitable methods – such as those that account for cultural context of phenotype ascertainment and GxE – should then be developed and implemented to more precisely measure and treat disorders across cultures.
