Mullingar genome information event for men over the age of 60
Do you remember Dawn Run winning the Cheltenham Gold Cup in 1985? Are you interested in what makes racehorses genetically fast? Are you aware of the links between horse DNA and human health?
The role that genetics/genomics can play in our lives, in particular our health, is the subject of a free public event in Annebrook House Hotel, Mullingar on November 16th in which men aged 60+ are being specifically invited to learn more about genomics.
Organised by IPPOSI, the Irish Platform for Patients’ Organisations, Science & Industry, the Mullingar event is part of a series of public events on human genomics, targeting different communities.
Registered attendees will participate in a number of discussions with experts, as well as patient and public advocates, chaired by an independent facilitator. They will have the opportunity to hear from people who are expert not only in the field of human genomics, but also in the areas of horse genetics, genetic counselling and rare diseases. Experts include Professor Emmeline Hill of University College Dublin, who discovered the ‘speed gene’ in thoroughbred horses.
To register for the event, people must identify as male and be 60 years old or above, and resident in Ireland. For full information click here before the closing date of October 29.
Blueprint for our Bodies
Welcoming the initiative as an opportunity to engage with men aged 60+ on an area that they may not be hugely familiar with, IPPOSI Chief Executive Derick Mitchell said: “Genomics. Not exactly a word that trips off the tongue. However, we wouldn’t exist without it. The human genome is the blueprint for our bodies. Made up of DNA, no human
genome is the same, and tiny glitches in that DNA can give rise to serious illness and disability.
“Genomics will become an increasing part of both science and everyday life in Ireland in the coming years. As genomic medicine advances from lab to clinic, there is a real and pressing need for public education and engagement initiatives like this one. Genetic information is not only important to individuals but also potentially to those nearest and dearest too. Given that most of the Irish public have hardly even heard of genomics, we want to use ‘conversation starters’ such as horse genetics, to reach certain audiences. Without these conversations, there is a risk that confusion, mistrust and even pseudo-science will fill the gap”.
“There are many challenges around genomics. Notwithstanding these, many of IPPOSI’s members living with chronic and rare diseases believe that if we get it right, it offers the potential for scientific and medical breakthroughs that will enable patients receive a quicker diagnosis and a treatment plan that is personalised to them. “With this event, we want to explore the opinions of men aged 60+ around the opportunities presented by genomics, as well as the challenges that may arise from a social, ethical, legal, and practice point of view”.
“You don’t have to have a science or medical background or know anything about genomics to join the workshop. We want you to come with an open mind and lots of questions.”