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100 000 Genomes Project

In this article, we will look at the 100 000 Genomes Project which aims to integrate genomic technologies into everyday clinical practice.

The 100 000 Genomes Project was launched by David Cameron in late 2012 as a legacy endeavour to shape the future NHS and integrate genomic technologies into everyday clinical practice.

Patients with either cancer or a rare disease are eligible for enrolment which is being facilitated by a number of Genomics Medicine Centres (or GMCs) located throughout England. Enrolment began earlier this year.

The project is delivered by Genomics England, a company established and funded by the Department of Health and has three main aims:

To create an ethical and transparent programme based on consent;
To enable scientific discovery and medical insights and
To kick-start the development of the UK genomics industry.

It is a unique and collaborative effort with clinicians throughout England and representing many different medical specialities working together to enrol patients and, ultimately, feedback results.

If you would be interested in reading more about the project, check out the Genomics England website.

Talking point

If you have already been involved with the 100 000 Genomes Project, either as a clinician or as a patient, and would feel happy to share your experiences, we would love to hear from you.