Title: Human Genome Sequencing Project and the implications for international primary healthcare programme in Sub-Sahara African nations

Authors: E. William Ebomoyi; Shankar Srinivasan

Addresses: Department of Health Studies, College of Health Sciences, Chicago State University, Chicago, Illinois 60628-1598, USA ' Department of Health Informatics, School of Health Related Professions, UMDNJ, Newark, NJ 07107-3001, USA

Abstract: This study has critically examined the impact of the Human Genome Sequencing Project on the WHO-championed primary healthcare programme. The investigators outlined how genomic-based research studies have provided relevant cues about curing many of these hitherto incurable genetic diseases. The need for African inter-regional bodies to set aside between 3%-5% of their annual budget to provide funding for the establishment of SSA-African genomic centres of excellence was emphasised. Innovative public health genomics can play a monumental role not only in eliminating most of the disease burden in the region but also enhance the inadequate, current life expectancy in Sub-Sahara-Africa. Strategies for establishing and sustaining the development of public health genomics and innovative genomic medicine were outlined. Finally, the ethical legal and social implication of genomics research in the context of socio-economic development was presented.

Keywords: Human Genome Sequencing Project; HGSP; primary healthcare; global health policies; Tropical Disease Research programme; World Health Organization; WHO; United Nations; developing countries; least developing nations; Sub-Saharan Africa; public health genomics; innovative genomic medicine; ethics; ethical implications; legal implications; social implications.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMEI.2014.060248

International Journal of Medical Engineering and Informatics, 2014 Vol.6 No.2, pp.135 - 149

Published online: 24 May 2014 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article