Genes of Destiny

Researchers studying the human genome have continued to make strides scientifically altering genes in order to understand and predict disease. Some diseases (cancers, cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease) are caused by a mutation in a single gene, while others (schizophrenia, heart disease) are caused by a combination of genes. As technology advances, researchers are able to pinpoint the specific genes that cause disease, allowing for better detection, prevention, and treatment. Healthcare organizations are leveraging their Epic EMR to document patient history, family history, and the genetic makeup of a patient in order to provide a comprehensive, targeted plan for their diagnosis and care.

Read Terry Gross’ interview with Siddhartha Mukherjee, author of The Gene: An Intimate History and the Pulitzer Prize winning book The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer.

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