Harnessing genomics and translational research to improve health in Africa: a report of the 13th African Society of Human Genetics meeting in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

TL;DR

This paper summarizes a conference on using genomics and translational research to improve health outcomes in Africa.

Contribution

The paper provides an overview of recent African human genetics research and discusses challenges and opportunities for genomic health improvement.

Findings

African research on genetics of infectious and non-communicable diseases was presented.

Discussions focused on translating genomic research into improved health outcomes in Africa.

Ethical, legal, and social issues in genomics research were highlighted as key challenges.

Abstract

The thirteenth conference of the African Society of Human Genetics with the theme “harnessing genomics and translational research to improve health in Africa” was held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, in August 2021, using a hybrid in-person and virtual model for participation in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. During the meeting, African research across various human genetics disciplines was presented, including talks on the genetics of infectious and non-communicable diseases, population genetics, and translational research. The meeting also featured presentations on pharmacogenomics, genetics of developmental disorders, cancer genetics and genetics of rare diseases. In-depth discussions on ethical legal and social issues in genomics research and community and patient engagement were also key sessions of this meeting. The primary focus of the conference and the discussions was how to translate the wealth of genomic research in the continent into improved health outcomes in the continent. In this report, we summarize the key scientific research relevant to Africa presented and discussed during the meeting providing an overview of the progress of human genetics in the continent. We also discuss opportunities and challenges of harnessing genomics for health improvement in Africa.

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