Genomics: what it could mean for the future of medicine

Posted: Published on August 2nd, 2014

This post was added by Dr Simmons

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From the Telegraph Genomics are not overhyped: they really can change medicine

It is correct that science has not made as much progress as had been hoped in unlocking the genetic factors that contribute to most common diseases. But quite staggering progress has been made elsewhere. In three areas in particular cancer, rare congenital diseases and infections the plummeting cost of reading DNA and sciences growing ability to interpret it is already transforming medical practice. The Genomics England project is about bringing these benefits to NHS patients, and enabling further scientific discoveries to emerge from their care.

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From the Guardian What we can all gain from personal genetics

Learning about your genetics enables you to optimize your health. It will take us decades to understand all 3bn base pairs in the human genome, but today we already know what thousands of important genetic differences mean for individuals.

We know that genes affect your risk for conditions like cystic fibrosis and breast cancer, and we know how your genes affect your responses to drugs like Warfarin. As genetic testing becomes more affordable, more people can benefit from understanding their genetics and use that understanding to improve their health, help them prevent the harmful side-effects of some drugs and potentially avoid preventable deaths.

For example, roughly 8 per cent of people with European ancestry have a genetic variant that puts them at higher than average risk for blood clots. There are a number of easy ways to minimize this risk, ranging from avoiding oral contraceptives to staying hydrated and maintaining mobility during airplane flights.

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From Huffingon Post Personal Genomics for All

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Genomics: what it could mean for the future of medicine

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