Intro to genomics

The first complete sequence of a human’s genome was completed in 2003 by an international collaborative research program called the Human Genome Project.

In recent years, the price of sequencing one’s genome has plummeted, creating opportunities to integrate whole genome sequencing into clinical care. But, with integration into medicine, fears about privacy are increasing.

Why is whole genome sequencing important?

View stories about how genome sequencing can personally affect individuals and families. Genomic sequencing has the possibility to transform clinical care. However, fear of genomic discrimination due to ambiguous privacy regulations is negatively impacting the healthcare of real people.

Current genomics-related legislation

The Genetic Information Non-discrimination Act of 2008 (GINA) forbids employers and health insurance companies from discriminating based on one’s genome. Each state also has it’s own privacy laws regarding genomic information. To compare individual state privacy laws, visit NHGRI’s Genome Statute and Legislation Database Search. For more recent news on what’s going on in genomics policy, visit the Genetics and Public Policy Center’s current genomics news.