Community genetics services : report of a WHO consultation on community genetics in low- and middle-income countries

Overview

Background

Community genetics has been defined as “the art and science of the responsible and realistic application of health and disease-related genetics and genomics knowledge and technologies in human populations (communities) to the benefit of individual persons.” The objective of this Consultation was to develop an evidence-based report on community genetics services to provide guidance to low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) in accordance with the 2008–2013 Action Plan for the Global Strategy for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs).

The goal of community genetics in LMIC is to prevent congenital disorders and genetic diseases at population level and, at the same time, to provide genetics services (diagnosis and counselling) in the community for individuals and families. The term “prevention” is used in this report to indicate actions implemented with the indivisible objectives of reducing the birth prevalence and health impact of congenital disorders and genetic diseases, while respecting voluntary reproductive decisions.