What is Public Health Genetics and Genomics?
Public health genetics and genomics is applying genetic and genomic information to improve population health and help prevent disease.
Public health genetics and genomics programs have various goals and activities, including:
- Conducting research to better understand how genetics impacts health
- Providing education about genetics
- Offering genetic services like genetic counseling or genetic testing
- Helping patients and families access support resources
- Creating policies to help with genetic conditions
What is Public Health Genetics and Genomics flyer
Who is involved in Public Health Genetics and Genomics?
Many different people and organizations work together in the field of public health genetics and genomics. The image below summarizes some of the many participants in this field. We hope that you join us for the events during Public Health Genetics and Genomics Week to learn about some current public health genetics work.
Why is Public Health Genetics Important?
Genetics and genomics are playing a bigger role in health care and research. New discoveries are helping us better understand health and how to best care for people with genetic conditions. It is critical that everyone who needs genetic services can get them if they choose. Public health genetics helps make sure that the benefits of genetic services and research are available to all. People who work in public health genetics do this by:
- Supporting education and advocacy about genetics for all communities
- Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in genetic services and research
- Engaging communities in genetics projects and research
- Helping shape policies about genetics and genomics
- Looking at the ethical, legal, and social sides of genetics and research
PHGW Daily Themes
- Day 1, May 27th: Public Health Genetics & Genomics: Learning from Our Past
- Day 2, May 28th: Empowering Through Knowledge: Education in Public Health Genetics & Genomics
- Day 3: May 29th: Innovating for Impact: Public Health Genetics & Genomics in Action
- Day 4: May 30th: The Future is Now: Current Research in Public Health Genetics & Genomics