Genetics conference

GENETICS PROGRAM/HUMAN GENOME PROJECT

Ohio's Regional Comprehensive Genetics Program

Ohio's Regional Comprehensive Genetics Program (RCGP) is located in the Bureau of Early Intervention Services in the Division of Family and Community Health Services at the Ohio Department of Health (ODH). The Ohio Department of Health awards grant funds to Regional Comprehensive Genetic Centers in six designated regions of the state. Funds to support the program are generated from the sale of newborn screening kits in the state of Ohio with some additional support from the Maternal and Child Health Block Grant. Approximately $1.3 million dollars was allocated by ODH to Regional Comprehensive Genetic Centers in SFY 2000.

The purpose of the genetics program is to provide quality, comprehensive genetic services in Ohio. Genetic services include, but are not limited to, genetic counseling, education, diagnosis and treatment for all genetic conditions and congenital abnormalities.

The goals of the program are: 1) to improve the health of all children and adults with genetic disorders through the provision of quality, comprehensive genetic services that are available, accessible and culturally sensitive; and 2) to increase public and professional awareness and knowledge of genetic conditions, related issues, and the availability of comprehensive genetics disease-related services.

What is the Human Genome Project/The New Genetics?

• The New Genetics is science that is based on the findings of the Human Genome Project (HGP).
   
• The HGP was initiated in 1990 as a partnership between the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Energy
   
• The Goals of the HGP are:
  
  1. Locate and map all human genes.
      
  2. Discover the entire DNA sequence of the human genome.
      
  3. Predict and plan for the impact that genetic information and technologies may have on society, including the ethical ramifications.

What will be the Impact of the New Genetics?

• New tools are being developed to look at and define the inner workings of cells, tissues, organs and whole organisms. This will revolutionize biomedical research and medical practice in the future.
   
• This knowledge will help us understand: why some people are susceptible to certain chronic diseases or conditions; why others are resistant under the same conditions, and; what interventions or lifestyle choices are most likely to prolong health in specific individuals or populations.
   
• It is predicted that within the next decade, genetic testing and other genetic technologies will be routine in medical practice.
   
• Genetic screening and counseling will allow people to prolong health and avoid disease.
   
• Some genetic therapies are expected to become routine. The prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease and cancer are expected to be among the first big advancements.

What is the Role for Public Health in Genetics?

• To integrate the information from genetics-related research into existing public health programs.
   
• To develop, refine and target genetics-related public health messages aimed at health promotion and disease prevention, and to evaluate their effectiveness.
   
• Formulate genetics-related public health policy that is in the interest of the entire population.
   
• Assure equitable access and fair use of genetic information and technologies for everyone.
   
• Increase awareness in the general population so that people will understand the power of this technology, but also its limitations.

MEDIA CONTACTS: Public Affairs, (614) 644-8562.

Last Updated: 09/08/2000