A new campaign is calling for broader access to DNA screening to help Australians understand their genetic risk for certain cancers and heart disease.
While these screening programs focus on specific conditions, they are also helping build the foundations for the future of genomic medicine in Australia. For people impacted by mitochondrial disease (mito), advances in genetic screening are particularly important.
Many people in the mito community experience a long and complex journey to diagnosis. Genetic testing plays a key role in diagnosing mitochondrial diseases by looking for changes in a person’s DNA that may cause the condition.
Expanding access to population-level DNA screening helps strengthen Australia’s genomic capability. It also helps increase public awareness and understanding of genetic risk.
As genomic technologies continue to develop, this growing capability may support earlier detection of a wider range of genetic conditions.
One day, programs like DNA Screen may be able to detect genetic changes linked to mito. Earlier identification of mito could help shorten the diagnostic journey and support earlier care and planning.
Mito Foundation is supporting this campaign for expanded access to DNA screening. Investment in screening programs today helps build the systems, expertise and awareness needed for the next generation of genomic healthcare.
