Global WHO's Human Genetics collaboration for the development of genetic services in developing countries
A reduction in the mortality and morbidity caused by communicable diseases and malnutrition has changed the disease spectrum across a number of different countries. As a result, congenital and genetic disorders are increasingly being recognized as significant health burdens. Taking this into account, WHO has supported activities in the field of medical and human genetics at the international and country levels. Several international studies on genetic disorders, including haemoglobin disorders, cystic fibrosis, haemophilia, haemochromatosis, and congenital malformations, have been initiated in order to develop approaches suitable for their incorporation into health services. The key element in achieving this goal is the further development of national programmes through international coordination and cooperation. Thanks to support from various NGOs and international organizations, our collaboration has been focused on achieving improved diagnosis, prevention and care of genetic disease, as well as the education of the public and health care workers. These points have been widely discussed at various WHO meetings and related publications are available on the WHO Genomic Resource Centre website (http://www.who.int/genomics).
In 2004, at the World Health Assembly, the resolution on "Genomics and World Health" was discussed and adopted. Member States emphasized the importance of genomics for world health, and the importance of the ethical, legal, and social issues. The next year the members of the WHO Executive Board, discussed the "Control of Genetic Diseases", and supported the further development of genetic approaches to health improvement in countries. In January 2006, the WHO Executive Board also reviewed the issue on "Sickle cell anaemia" and adopted the resolution urging Members States to develop, implement and reinforce national programmes for the prevention and management of sickle cell anaemia. To address these issues WHO's Human Genetics is developing regional networks of cooperating centres and groups of experts for the prevention and control of genetic and congenital disorders.