Central Research

Accelerated adoption of Genomics in Latin America

The field of genomics has been steadily advancing in recent years, and the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted just how important this technology can be for understanding and combating infectious diseases. While the pandemic caused significant disruptions to healthcare systems and economies all over the world, it also provided a unique opportunity for countries in Latin America to reassess and accelerate their adoption of genomics [1].

Despite the challenges posed by limited resources and infrastructure, Latin American countries have made significant strides in incorporating genomics into their healthcare systems [2] and have established genomics research programs using this technology to improve clinical diagnostics.

In the post-pandemic world, Latin American countries are realizing the potential of tracking the origin and spread of infectious diseases and viruses, beyond SARS-CoV-2 and how the adoption of genomics in their healthcare systems may improve public health while having a better understanding of various diseaseslike cancer, rare/inherited diseases, and chronic diseases - and their impacts on diverse populations. However, there is still much work to be done in terms of expanding access and increasing funding for genomics research and implementation in Latin America.

According to the report Accelerating access to genomics for global health by the World Health Organization (WHO), “current uses and future applications of genomic technologies are critical for improving the health and livelihood of people in all parts of the world, regardless of economic status”[3]. The report also highlights the need for coordinated efforts and strategic investments from governments, private entities, research funding agencies, and international organizations to fully realize this potential, and makes 15 recommendations “intended to accelerate the establishment of genomic technologies and to sustain their beneficial use”.

Furthermore, collaborations with global partners in genomics research can enhance knowledge sharing and help accelerate the adoption of new methods, protocols, and technologies creating opportunities for advancements in precision medicine and personalized therapies that will help to address the unique health needs of each individual in the region.[4]

Thus, investing in genomics research infrastructure and training for healthcare professionals can go a long way towards improving public health in the region. By doing so, Latin America will join the global genomics community and contribute to a better understanding of diseases and their impacts worldwide while helping bridge existing health disparities in the region.

In conclusion, while the adoption of genomics in Latin America’s healthcare systems may be a challenging and time-consuming process, it is undoubtedly worthwhile.

Monse Rodriguez, MSc

Genomics Specialist Latin America at Illumina

References

[1] Leite, J.A., Vicari, A., Perez, E., Siqueira, M.M., Resende, P.C., Motta, F.D., Freitas, L., Fernández, J., Parra, B., Castillo, A.E., Fasce, R.A., Martinez Caballero, A.A., Gresh, L., Aldighieri, S., Gabastou, J.M., Franco, L.G., & Mendez-Rico, J. (2022). Implementation of a COVID-19 Genomic Surveillance Regional Network for Latin America and Caribbean region. PLoS ONE,17.

[2] Lucien, M.A., Forde, M.S., Isabel, M.R., Boissinot, M., & Isabel, S. (2022). Infectious diseases genomic surveillance capacity in the Caribbean: a retrospective analysis of SARS-CoV-2. LancetRegional Health -Americas,18.

[3] World Health Organization. (2023). Acelerar el acceso a la genómica en pro de la salud mundial: promoción, aplicación, colaboración y cuestiones éticas, jurídicas y sociales: informe del Consejo Científico de la OMS. Retrived from: https://iris.who.int/handle/10665/375818

[4] Norris, E.T., Wang, L., Conley, A.B., Rishishwar, L., Mariño-Ramírez, L., Valderrama-Aguirre, A., & Jordan, I.K. (2018). Genetic ancestry, admixture and health determinants in Latin America. BMC Genomics,19