Aligning Genomics with Indigenous Health
9 December 2024
In a significant step towards improving Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health outcomes in Queensland, a series of Indigenous genomics information sessions were held across ten communities. The ALIGN Queensland node team made these visits with the aim to re-engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Health Organisations (ATSICCHOs) and community members, fostering open dialogue about the risks and benefits of genomics for our communities’ health.
Key Highlights:
- Community engagement: The sessions provided a platform for attendees to share their perspectives on genomics and its potential impact on Indigenous health.
- Building relationships: The ALIGN team, in collaboration with Genetic Health Queensland and GeneEQUAL, strengthened relationships with ATSICCHOs and community members.
- Local genetics health issues: Local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers and community members had access to clinical geneticists at the session, who were able to provide on the spot advice on genetic health issues and services.
- Tailored genomics services: Preliminary discussions focused on how to better tailor genomics services to meet the specific needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients.
- Genomics and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health: The role of genomics in the broader Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health agenda, with consideration to self-determination and equity, was explored.
The ALIGN Queensland team would like to extend our sincere thanks to the amazing ATSICCHO staff who worked with us to plan and deliver these sessions. With their help and close relationships with their communities across the state, we’ve been able to set some great groundwork for collaboration and codesign.
In 2025 the ALIGN Queensland team plans to further involve Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in genomics research, with yarning circles to inform the both development of the ALIGN pharmacogenomics roadmap and other Queensland-specific Indigenous genomics projects (including GeneEQUAL and Integrated Genomic Health Care). These discussions will be crucial in ensuring that Indigenous perspectives are central to the design and implementation of future genomics projects.
By prioritising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices and fostering strong partnerships, the ALIGN team is committed to advancing genomics research that benefits Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.