Genomics: A Revolution in Health Care? – ETHealthWorld

by Dr. Surendra K Chikara

Everyones DNA is as unique as their fingerprint. Information about a persons genes, environment and lifestyle factors can be used to prevent or manage disease and this is usually referred to as precision medicine. This form of personalized healthcare has been around for a few years and has been increasingly gaining popularity. Thanks to the Human Genome Project (1990-2003) that sequenced around 20,000 genes and created a breakthrough in healthcare. We are now able to use genomics to predict, prevent and manage disease better than ever.

As of today, we are experiencing a revolutionary shift towards precision medicine. We can quickly sequence DNA at a large scale and help thousands of people manage and prevent disease. Genomics has been especially valuable for identifying rare genetic diseases that had previously taken years to diagnose, ending uncertainty and suffering for many people.

In addition to reducing the risk of disease, genomic testing can serve as a source of data. Many organizations are now investing time and money into building databases of genetic biomarkers for various chronic diseases, so they can be identified early. Such databases could deliver a definitive diagnosis in seconds which could significantly bring down treatment costs at a global level.

The use of genomics in the healthcare industry has given a new perspective on managing disease; people are now focused on preventing disease rather than curing it. There are numerous start-ups that are working on utilizing genomic testing to prevent disease by helping people find the root cause of their health issues.

The need for preventive healthcareA World Economic Forum study estimates that the global economic impact of cancer, diabetes, mental illness, heart disease, and respiratory disease could reach USD 47 trillion over the next 20 years. The increased demand on healthcare systems could be lessened through breakthroughs like genomic testing because they make it possible to prevent disease.The growing prevalence of chronic diseases and demand for personalized medicine have contributed to the precision medicine market size to grow from USD 8.2 billion to 16.4 billion by 2025.

The Pandemic further proved to be an eye-opener for many people, especially those with chronic diseases, since they were prone to a higher risk for catching the virus and developing complications. This highlighted the immense need for preventing such diseases in the first place and further emphasized the importance of the need for preventive healthcare in the country.

Preventive healthcare is the future Genomics has created a shift in peoples mindset towards disease prevention. It has become increasingly clear in recent years that genomic testing and precision medicine is the wave of the future. Just like health insurance has now become commonplace in India, genomic testing would soon become the first line of defense against chronic disease. It is only a matter of time before genomic testing and thus precision medicine enters the mainstream of healthcare in India as well.

Dr. Surendra K Chikara - Founder & CEO - Bione

(DISCLAIMER: The views expressed are solely of the author and ETHealthworld does not necessarily subscribe to it. ETHealthworld.com shall not be responsible for any damage caused to any person / organisation directly or indirectly.)

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Genomics: A Revolution in Health Care? - ETHealthWorld