Health disparity

Health disparity and genomics

Genomics applications continue to increase in clinical/medical applications. Historically, results from studies do not include underrepresented communities and races. The question of who benefits from publicly funded genomics is an important public health consideration, and attention will be needed to ensure that implementation of genomic medicine does not further entrench social‐equity concerns. The utilization of genetic services is lower among rural communities, diverse ethnic and racial groups, and those with lower incomes, which can lead to adverse health and wellbeing. Currently the National Human Genome Research Institute counts with a Genomics and Health Disparities Interest Group to tackle the issues of accessibility and application of genomic medicine to communities not normally represented. The Director of the Health Disparities Group, Vence L. Bonham Jr., leads a team that seeks to qualify and better understand the disparities and reduce the gap in access to genetic counseling, inclusion of minority communities in original research, and access to genetic information to improve health. In 2024, the World Health Organization also proposed a genomics program to advocate for overcoming these issues. Specifically, promoting collaboration in the field and overcoming barriers against implementing methodologies that tackle disparities in access to genomics services.