For Immediate Release: Wednesday, October 21, 2026, 9:00 a.m. U.S. Eastern Time
Media Contact: Evelyn Mantegani, +1 240-833-2014, [email protected]
Rockville, Md. – DNA-based population health screening has been shown to support earlier detection and prevention of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other conditions associated with identifiable genomic risks. A panel will discuss the development, implementation, and outcomes of population genomic screening programs across a variety of healthcare settings.
Unlike diagnostic testing that uncovers secondary or incidental findings, population genomic screening intentionally looks for genetic variants associated with preventable or treatable conditions. The panel will explore how Wilson-Junger population-screening criteria can guide decisions about which diseases and genes to include in screening panels, while accounting for differences among the populations being screened and the healthcare setting caring for them.
Genomic screening programs cannot rely on a one-size-fits-all model. Effective implementation requires careful consideration of disease burden, screening costs, follow-up care, scalable models to engage patients and the potential downstream effects on patients and health systems. In adult populations, programs must also consider safeguards related to insurance coverage and ensure that participants can access the clinical resources needed to interpret and act on their results.
This session provides insight into how researchers and healthcare systems are developing evidence-based, equitable, and sustainable approaches to identifying genomic risk before disease develops.
Session Presentations Include:
- DNA-based population screening (DNAPS) in adults – Building programs that prepare for the future and learn from the past by Michael Murray, Mount Sinai Health System
- How do we decide what to screen for? The ClinGen Population Genomic Screening Actionability Framework is here to help by Adam Buchanan, Geisinger Health System
- Scaling genetics services for population screening: Experiences, outcomes & impacts by Yvonne Bombard, Genetics Advisor, University of Toronto, Unity Health Toronto
- Implementing population genomics at scale: Global strategy, local reality, and lessons from a 14,000-participant pilot by Rebecca Rohrer, BUPA
About the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG)
The American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) is the leading global organization advancing the science of human genetics and genomics. Representing nearly 8,000 researchers, clinicians, genetic counselors, educators, and other professionals, ASHG drives progress in understanding the human genome and its role in health and disease. The Society fosters innovation and collaboration through its flagship events and publications—including the ASHG Annual Meeting and its peer-reviewed journals The American Journal of Human Genetics and Human Genetics and Genomics Advances. ASHG also champions science advocacy, supports the next generation of genetics professionals, and promotes responsible policies and public engagement in genetics. Learn more at www.ashg.org.
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