Building genomic capacity for precision health in Africa.
Nat Med
; 30(7): 1856-1864, 2024 Jul.
Article
de En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-38961224
ABSTRACT
The African continent is poised to have a pivotal role in the global population landscape, with the United Nations projecting a population of 2.5 billion (more than 25% of the global population) by 2050. Amid this demographic shift, Africa faces a unique healthcare challenge-navigating a complex landscape of infectious and non-communicable diseases. This necessitates a departure from the conventional 'one-size-fits-all' medical model toward precision approaches that are efficient and sustainable. Genomic capacity is a pillar of precision health; however, access to up-to-date genetic testing in African countries is limited, compounded by a startling lack of representation of data from populations of African descent in gene discovery studies. In this Review, we delve into the challenges impeding the development of genomic capacity in Africa, such as the lack of electronic clinical and epidemiological records, infrastructural challenges, high supply chain costs and the 'dependency trap' that jeopardizes long-term sustainability. We emphasize the need for strategies hinged on true partnerships, robust infrastructure, workforce development and well-crafted policies. Finally, we outline recent progress and existing initiatives that should be considered as role models for future capacity-building initiatives.
Texte intégral:
1
Collection:
01-internacional
Base de données:
MEDLINE
Sujet principal:
Génomique
/
Médecine de précision
Limites:
Humans
Pays/Région comme sujet:
Africa
Langue:
En
Journal:
Nat Med
Sujet du journal:
BIOLOGIA MOLECULAR
/
MEDICINA
Année:
2024
Type de document:
Article
Pays d'affiliation:
Nigeria