First things first - Our DNA

Are we on the same page when it comes to the future of medicine ?

What if understanding our DNA could help doctors make better decisions about our health? Every human being is unique. We have different physical characteristics, different susceptibilities to certain diseases, and sometimes even different responses to the same medication. But have you ever wondered how much of this is connected to our DNA? This is where genomics comes in.

As I always like to explain (I'm so sure I have said it to everyone in my circle): Think of your body as a book (genome) with thousands of pages (genetic material). On every chapter (gene), there is a set of instructions for a particular function; it can either tell your body how to grow, function and maintain itself. To date we understood (not fully) about 20,000 chapters, like only half of the book! These instructions are written in a molecule called DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), using 4 chemical building blocks (A,C,G & T are the only alphabets) whose specific arrangement forms our genetic code. These code are essential for almost everything the cells in our body do! .

Genomics is the study of an organism's entire genome – all its genetic material, including the genes and the regions between them. Rather than studying one gene at a time, genomics allows scientists to examine the bigger picture and understand how different parts of our DNA interact and influence health.

Why does this matter for medicine? Our DNA can contain variations that influence our likelihood of developing certain diseases. Some variations are harmless, while others may increase disease risk or directly contribute to a genetic condition. By studying these variations, scientists and healthcare professionals can gain valuable insights as follows: 1. Earlier diagnosis: Genomic testing can help identify the genetic causes of certain rare diseases, sometimes ending years of uncertainty for patients and their families. 2. More suitable treatments: People do not always respond to medication in the same way. Pharmacogenomics studies how genetic differences influence our response to medicines, potentially helping doctors select more appropriate drugs and doses. 3. Cancer treatment: Some cancers have specific genetic changes that can be identified through genomic testing. This information can help guide treatment decisions, including the use of targeted therapies. 4. Disease prevention: In certain situations, identifying inherited genetic risk factors can help individuals and healthcare professionals make informed decisions about screening and preventive care.

The future: Towards precision medicine Traditionally, healthcare has often relied on a general approach: patients with the same diagnosis may receive similar treatments. However, we are increasingly recognising that two people with the same disease may have very different biological characteristics. This is the idea behind precision medicine. Precision medicine aims to consider an individual's genetic makeup, environment and lifestyle when making healthcare decisions. Genomics is an important part of this approach because it provides information at genetic level. However, even in 2026, there is still work to be done. Not every genetic variation has a known medical meaning, and having a genetic risk factor does not mean someone will necessarily develop a disease. Access to genomic testing, data privacy, affordability and the representation of different populations in genetic research are also important challenges. Ultimately, genomics is about understanding what makes each of us biologically unique. The future of medicine may not simply be about treating a disease, but understanding the person behind it.