Genetics progress welcomed

A white paper on the progress of the use of genetics in the NHS has been published by the Department of Health (DoH).

Paper author Professor David Harper, DoH chief scientist and director general for health improvement and protection, said genetics brought health benefits to patients.

The NHS has been supported with 70 million pounds of investment from the government to develop its genetics knowledge, which has included the establishment of the UK Genetics Testing Network.

Mr Harper said the government would continue to work with the NHS, researchers and stakeholders to “bring the benefits of genetics advances within the reach of every patient”.

According to the white paper, key developments have been made in the areas of childhood blindness, adverse drug reactions and cystic fibrosis and sickle cell screening.

More than 70 new grade A trainees have also been funded in genetics laboratories.

Modern genetics has its roots in the works of the 19th-century scientist Gregor Mendel and his theories and experiments on plant heredity.