The S2 allele, unfavorable lipid profiles (increased FBS, TG, TC, LDL-C, apoB, and apoCIII; decreased HDL-C, apoAI and lower apoAI:apoB ratio) and environmental risk factors, such as elevated waist circumference and increased systolic and diastolic pressure were found to promote the development of atherosclerosis. The gene discussed is APOC3; the disease is atherosclerosis.