New Blog: Genomics Matters

Genetics  has a role in diseases of public health significance that affect infants, children, and adults. Our genes influence our response to drugs, infectious threats, and environmental exposures. More than 2,000 genetic tests are in use today and many more are coming.  

In spite of the rapid pace of discovery in genetics, we are still in the early days of knowing how to use this information to improve the health of individuals, families, and communities.

We all need credible information for health decision making

For over 60 years, CDC has been dedicated to protecting health and promoting quality of life through the prevention and control of disease, injury, and disability. The agency is committed to providing information and developing programs that reduce the health consequences of the leading causes of death and disability in the United States.

Since 1997, the CDC Office of Public Health Genomics has been dedicated to integrating genomics into research, policy and programs, in ways that can help improve the health of all people.

What this blog will be about

We will share the results of genomic research, evaluation, and programs conducted by CDC and other institutions around the world and comment on them from a public health perspective. We will not provide individual medical advice or endorse specific commercial products. We encourage respectful comments and dialogue.

Your input is needed

We would like to get your input on what topics you would like to see on the blog.  Are you interested in some of these topics?

• What can be learned from personal genomic tests available online?
• How can family history be useful for improving health?
• How can we become more savvy readers and users of genomic information?
• What genomic programs exist today that can help save lives and improve quality of life?
• What genomic information is useful in reducing the burden of common diseases like cancer, heart diabetes, and asthma?