**5. Conclusion**

CVDs having a high prevalence and mortality rate globally need to be continually studied with the focus being risk prediction, prevention of disease as well as improving treatment strategies. This review supplements current evidence on the contribution of genetic polymorphisms in the pathophysiology of CVDs. Although the data from some of the early studies of these polymorphisms is conflicting, mainly because the study populations were small and not diverse enough, there are promising results in some of the CVR factors. It is therefore apparent that different polymorphisms should be studied in large sample sizes, diverse ethnicities and demographics. Genetic polymorphisms should be taken into consideration in the assessment of risk profiles for CVDs.
