Each year the genetics community and the public celebrate “DNA Day” on April 25. DNA day commemorates and celebrates the completion of the Human Genome Project (HGP) in 2003 and the discovery of the DNA double helix in 1953 by Watson and Crick. It took 13 years to complete the enormous task of sequencing the human genome.
The completion of the HGP has significantly helped to advance the fields of genetics and genomics through the expansion of clinical testing/screening and treatment for numerous conditions such as cancer, and diseases such as cystic fibrosis, neuromuscular diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. In addition, it has helped to make genetic testing a common and even “trendy” event through genealogical ancestry testing and direct-to-consumer testing such as 23andMe.
The HGP has also helped to advance the knowledge of bioinformatics and pharmacogenetics. Genetics is becoming much more mainstream and has allowed us to be more conscious about our personal health, connections, and family health history. In fact, in a recent interview with Dr. Francis Collins, leader of the HGP and now Director of the National Institutes of Health in Washington, D.C., and published in Forbes online magazine, Collins stated, “part of the ability to learn about the COVID-19 virus so quickly was due to the work performed through the HGP nearly 20 years ago!” Collins further stated the knowledge gained from the HGP can be directly traced back to “the ability of scientists starting to design vaccines within 24 hours of determining the viral genomic sequence!”
At Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital, we have our genetic counselors work with you to review your family cancer history and create a personalized care plan to help you understand your risk and assist you in decision-making. Additionally, our experts offer support as you inform family members about their possible cancer risk.
Now, as the world has begun undergoing COVID-19 vaccinations, we can celebrate the great work that helped to contribute to this lifesaving discovery nearly two decades ago!
Join our genetic counselor, Tiffiney Carter, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on April 30 in front our the Garden Cafe for more information about genetics. Visit houstonmethodist.org/cancer-sl to learn more about our cancer services.
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