World Health Organization launches programme to extend the benefits of human genomics worldwide

Human genomics can support diagnosis, prognosis, risk prediction and implementation of preventive measures. But the access to genomics technologies is unequally distributed across the globe. A recently published article in Nature Medicine is presenting a global programme by the World Health Organization (WHO), designed to address this inequality.

Deborah Mascalzoni

Deborah Mascalzoni is a member of the TAG-G.

Genomics can advance our understanding of disease, help develop treatments by looking at the entire genome, and improve the health of individuals and populations across the globe. However, access to genomics technologies and applications is not evenly distributed between high-income, and low- and middle-income countries. To bridge this gap, the WHO is implementing a programme to promote equitable and fair access to genomics technologies.

To provide ongoing guidance and monitor the progress of these actions, WHO has established the Technical Advisory Group on Genomics (TAG-G). The group consists of experts responsible for prioritizing strategic actions to advance genomic technologies in clinical practice and research.

“The strategic actions of the WHO genomics programme of work pledge to begin addressing the unequal utilization of human genomic applications, broaden their reach to underserved communities worldwide,” says Deborah Mascalzoni, expert member of the TAG-G, and Professor at the Centre for Research Ethics & Bioethics, Uppsala University.

The programme is focused on four key areas: promotion; implementation; collaboration; and ethical, legal, and social issues (ELSI). “In the ELSI domain, efforts are underway to develop WHO principles for human genome data access, use, and sharing. These efforts aim to establish comprehensive global guidance to promote ethical, legal, and equitable use and responsible sharing of genomic data among diverse stakeholders, fostering trust, public value, and upholding integrity and stewardship,” says Deborah Mascalzoni.

Are you curious to learn more about the WHO Genomics programme of work and its efforts to extend the benefits of genomics to all? Read more in this article: Ambrosino, E., Abou Tayoun, A.N., Abramowicz, M. et al. The WHO genomics program of work for equitable implementation of human genomics for global health. Nat Med (2024). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-024-03225-x


By Fanny Klingvall

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