AAFP Launches Revamped Genomics Web Page

The AAFP has retooled and reorganized its genomics resources, creating a new one-stop Web page dedicated to genetics-related issues and materials.

The page features links to the Academy's clinical policies and resources related to genetic testing and such conditions as breast cancer and newborn screening.

It also sports links to online resources from the federal government and other national organizations, many of which have partnered with the AAFP. Those resources include the consumer-oriented Genetics Home Reference, from the National Library of Medicine, and the Evaluation of Genomic Applications in Practice and Prevention initiative established by the CDC Office of Public Health Genomics.

In addition, links to genomics- and genetics-related legislation are included on the Web page.

Frederick Chen, M.D., M.P.H., chair of the AAFP Subcommitee on Genomics, said the online resource was revised and updated "because of the growing number of genetic tests and clinical applications that are showing up in (Academy) members' offices."

"Since the sequencing of the human genome, there are now more than 1,000 genetic tests available, as well as numerous private companies offering genetic sequencing and testing," said Chen, who is acting assistant professor in the family medicine department at the University of Washington in Seattle. "The AAFP Subcommittee on Genomics believes that it's important for our members to have the best evidence-based and up-to-date information that's available."