Genetics and Public Health: The Future is Now

Program Notes

Crucial Public Health Activities in Genetics  
  1. Assess the distribution of genetic variation on disease and disability in different communities.
  2. Assess the interaction of genetic variation with modifiable risk factors.
  3. Evaluate the laboratory quality of genetic tests. Evaluate the clinical validity of genetic tests.
  4. Communicate and deliver genetic information to various audiences
  5. Evaluate the impact of genetic testing and services on different communities.
     
Hemochromatosis Testing Methods  
  1. Transferrin Saturation- measure serum iron
  2. Genetic Test - tests for mutation in HFE gene

 

Grand Canyon of Genetics

Rapid gene discovery and the availability of genetic tests
 Use of genetic information to improve health and prevent disease

Public Health Steps to Bridge the Gap 

  1. Evaluate population data on validity and utility of genetic tests.
  2. Compare the genetic versus the non-genetic interventions.
  3. Cost-benefit and prevention-effectiveness analyses
  4. Assess ethical, legal and social implications of genetic information
  5. Decide the value of genetic information for testing in the absence of complete data.
  6. Ensure that the right services are delivered to the population.
  7. Evaluate programs.

Genetics Priorities for Public Health  

  • develop a strategic plan
  • training the workforce
  • enhance surveillance and epidemiology capacity
  • build partnerships
  • communicating genetics

Summary of Key Points  

  1. Human disease results from the interaction between genetic variation and modifiable environmental risk factors, providing public health with opportunities to target interventions.
  2. Public health leadership is needed to ensure the successful translation of genetic discoveries into actions that improve health and prevent disease.
  3. Genetics should be integrated into the three essential public health functions of assessment, policy development and assurance of access to health care.
  4. There is an urgent need for public health planning to build genetics capacity across all major programs and train the work force in genetics.
  5. As a society, we must guarantee that genetic information will not be misused. Achieving that goal may require additional legal protection to protect privacy and prevent discrimination.