Human genomics for health: Enhancing the impact of effective research. Report of the first regional meeting for the Americas. Brasília, 15–16 May 2024

Abstract

The regional meeting on Human Genomics for Health: Enhancing the Impact of Effective Research was convened in Brasilia on 15–16 May 2024 by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) with the support of World health Organization (WHO) headquarters, the PAHO/WHO country office in Brazil and the Department of Science and Technology, Ministry of Health, Brazil. This consultation aimed to provide a forum for the exchange of information and ideas on human genomics for health and convened over 100 participants from a broad spectrum of disciplines who contributed their expertise across relevant fields of research, including science policy, bioethics, national genomic initiatives, cancer, rare diseases, and congenital disorders. The meeting objective was to identify, discuss, and propose concrete actions for the implementation of human genomics in practice and for conducting genomic research in Member States. During the two-day meeting, this highly diverse group of experts shared experiences and best practices in applying genomics in clinical care and public health and conducting genomic research in the Americas, highlighting both successes and obstacles encountered in their work. Detailed discussions were held on the various challenges faced in the field, on the countries’ priorities and on the opportunities for advancement of genomics. There was a strong emphasis on the potential for collaborative efforts and the enhancement of partnerships within the Region of the Americas. This final report summarizes the reflection and discussion of the issues and challenges identified during the workshop and presents the key actions and recommendations to enhance equitable and effective genomics research in the Region, outlining a path forward for the Americas. The report underscore the necessity for coordinated action at national, regional, and global levels to equitably harness the transformative potential of human genomics in clinical care and public health.