The human genome project and international health
Article Abstract:
A discussion of the international aspects and benefits of the human genome project is provided, with emphasis on its ultimate focus toward curing and preventing disease. Treating and curing the diseases that now threaten man's existence in the developed world, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and stroke, require an understanding of the contribution of genetics. Information from gene cloning (reproduction of specific genetic sequences) has already enriched cancer research. The tools of genetic research are applicable to complex diseases, not only to disorders that are monogenic (resulting from one gene). Although the developing world needs improved sanitation, nutrition, and economies, the organisms that cause disease in these regions must also be fought. Presently, DNA analysis offers the possibility for dramatic improvements in diagnosis of these disorders. Certain population groups offer opportunities for studying unique genetic events, such as very isolated populations, or populations where intermarriage among persons who are closely related genetically is common. The genome project can organize research projects in these areas in a manner most effective for making maximal scientific use of the material. A history of international interest in a human genome project is provided. Several nations have mounted such projects, with collaborative arrangements still to be worked out. It is hoped that the Human Genome Organization (HUGO), formed in 1988, will coordinate research efforts. Abuse of information obtained from mapping the human genome must be prevented by the alertness of the medical and scientific communities. One way to prevent abuse is the ongoing review of the ethical aspects of this research by the National Institutes of Health, HUGO, and UNESCO. The human genome project is fundamentally an international effort. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1990
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Attempting to reduce hospital costs by strengthening primary care institutions: the Dutch Health Care Demonstration Project in the new town of Almere
Article Abstract:
Preliminary findings from the Dutch Health Care Demonstration Project in the town of Almere suggest that a primary care-based health care system is functional and practical. The first 100 families moved to the town of Almere in 1976. Its health care system was established separately from the rest of the Netherlands, and it incorporates the principles of regionalization and structuralization. Primary care in Almere has been decentralized to 15 health centers, each serving 6,000 to 8,000 people. All general practitioners and most other primary care workers work for one organization: the Almere Foundation for Primary Care. As in the rest of the Netherlands, general practitioners serve as a gatekeeper, and patients see specialists or are admitted to the hospital after referral from a general practitioner. A preliminary study that compared Almere's system of general practice with that of the rest of the Netherlands found that hospital admission rates were lower in Almere and so were the referral and prescription rates.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1993
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Reducing the burden of communication disorders in the developing world: An opportunity for the millennium development project
Article Abstract:
The millennium development project presents an opportunity to redress the imbalance in treatment of neglected disorders, which are nonfatal but disabling. Communication disorders including speech, language and hearing impairments in the developing world should be detected early in children and appropriate steps should be taken to help them lead a near normal life.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 2006
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