Addressing the Challenge of Public Health Genomics
Experts predict many benefits from genomic research, including innovative therapies and personalized prevention and drug selection. Yet most diseases of public health concern are influenced by multiple genetic, environmental and social factors. Given this complexity, how can genome-based research contribute to improved population health? The new multidisciplinary field of "public health genomics" can play an important role in addressing this challenge by developing methods and structures for the systematic integration of genomics knowledge within and across disciplines. This effort will allow for large sample sizes via pooled analyses; sharing of expertise in addressing difficult problems such as genetic test evaluation; and true integration of knowledge from clinical and epidemiological research, ethics, and social sciences. The ultimate goal of knowledge integration is to inform public policy and the development of health services, ensure stakeholder engagement, and implement training and education. GRAPH Int, a multidisciplinary international network, has been developed to promote international collaboration in achieving these goals.