EDUCATION IN GENETICS AND GENOMICS IN MEDICINE-WHY, WHAT AND HOW?

Abstract

Genetics and Genomics play an important role as determinants of health and disease. This century has seen significant technological advances, such as massive genome sequencing, which have led to a better understanding of mechanisms, risk factors, prevention, and therapies. However, the implementation of these developments in clinical practice and health systems is very heterogeneous worldwide, resulting in increasing global gaps. The recent report by the World Health Organization’s Scientific Council, titled “Accelerating Access to Genomics for Global Health,” calls on Member States to advance this implementation equitably. A key aspect for this purpose is the training and education of health professionals. This article summarizes international proposals and results, as well as an analysis of the situation of medical careers in Chile, some local experiences, and a call for national and international collaboration on this issue, benefiting individual and population health.