Genomics refers to the study of an organism’s sets of genes, including the interactions of those genes with each other and the environment. The World Health Organization’s (WHO) Science Council recently released a report titled “Accelerating access to genomics for global health.” This report advocates for the expansion of Genomic Technologies in developing countries following WHO’s 10-year strategy for genomic surveillance of pathogens.
WHO’s Science Council and its Role
The WHO Director established the Science Council in April 2021. The council consists of nine distinguished scientists and public health experts globally. Their role is to provide advice on high-priority matters and scientific and technological advancements that could directly enhance global health. The significant implications for public health led the council to identify genomics as the subject of its first study.
Key Highlights from WHO’s Report
The report emphasized the need for broader access to genomic technologies, particularly in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMIC). It declared it unjustifiable both ethically and scientifically for resource-deficient countries to gain late access to such technologies. Also, it outlined the need for addressing shortfalls in finance, infrastructure, materials, and trained personnel for expanding access to genomic technologies.
Understanding Genomics
Genomics involves biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology methods to comprehend and utilize biological information present in deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA). The technologies used in genomic science continue to expand and prove fundamental in depicting the biological information stored in genomes.
Applications and Advantages of Genomics
Genomics has far-reaching applications across various sectors. For instance, it has a role in controlling infectious diseases by mapping their evolution and assessing their sensitivity or resistance to drugs. It also helps in genetic conditions prevention and management. Moreover, it has applications in agriculture such as cataloguing genetic diversity and predicting susceptibility to environmental stress.
Economically, genomics stimulates the commercial sector that manufactures machines, provides services, and leads to job creation. Other benefits include progress in achieving several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and contributions to human health, including predicting and treating a variety of diseases.
Challenges Faced in Genomics
Despite its benefits, genomics also raises ethical and legal concerns related to privacy violation, employment and insurance discrimination, and cultural disrespect. Either insufficient protection or overly restrictive rules regarding genomic information can pose potential threats.
WHO Report Recommendations
The report proposed various recommendations to promote genomics. It suggested advocacy for the adoption or expanded use of genomics in all Member States. WHO should also promote affordable access to genomic technology globally. Practical issues impeding the implementation of genomics, such as local planning, financing, training of essential personnel, and provision of instruments, need to be identified and overcome.
Furthermore, WHO should promote international collaborations on genomics by strengthening existing collaborative arrangements and helping form new ones. Attention should also be paid to the ethical, legal, and social issues raised by genomics.
Finally, organizations in Member States, especially funding agencies, academic institutions, and governmental units should remain vigilant about these ethical considerations and contribute to developing solutions to issues related to genomic ethical, legal, and social implications.