About ASHG

The American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) is the primary organization for human geneticists in the Americas. The nearly 8000 members include researchers, academicians, clinicians, laboratory practice professionals, genetic counselors, industry scientists, and others with special interests in human genetics.

The principal objectives of ASHG include:

1. providing venues for investigators to share their research findings.
    
2. informing health professionals, legislators, health policy makers, and the general public; and
    
3. facilitating interactions between geneticists and other communities including policy makers, industry, educators, and patient and advocacy groups.

The first goal of ASHG is to provide venues to share the newest basic research findings, technological advances, and applications to evaluation, diagnosis and treatment. The ASHG Annual Meeting serves as the primary venue for human geneticist interaction and has an annual attendance of nearly 5000.

In addition, ASHG publishes The American Journal of Human Genetics, a high impact research journal published monthly.

The second goal, to inform professional legislators, health policy makers and the public is achieved by many of the ASHG members through active teaching programs in their own institutions as well as organized efforts such as workshops at the annual meeting. The Board of Directors has also expanded the educational efforts by making a substantial commitment to develop the Mentor Network and other important K-12 educational initiatives. These efforts inform students of the importance of the scientific and health implications of human genetics by integrating lessons into current curricula.

ASHG works with many other organizations in coalitions and partnerships to enhance the impact of the collective voice in public and policy making arenas.

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