As NIH’s Massive DNA Sharing Project Kicks Off, Officials Face Concerns Over Privacy After Alleged Serial Killer’s Arrest
The "All Of Us" initiative's goal is to enroll 1 million people in a research effort aimed at developing “personalized” methods of prevention, treatment and care for a wide variety of diseases. And, after news broke that the capture of the alleged Golden State Killer was made possible by genetic information found on the internet, NIH Director Francis Collins wants participants to know their data will be carefully shielded.
The Associated Press:
US Seeking 1 Million For Massive Study Of DNA, Health Habits
Wanted: A million people willing to share their DNA and 10 years of health habits, big and small, for science. On Sunday, the U.S. government will open nationwide enrollment for an ambitious experiment: If they can build a large enough database comparing the genetics, lifestyles and environments of people from all walks of life, researchers hope to learn why some escape illness and others don’t, and better customize ways to prevent and treat disease. (Neergaard, 5/1)
The Associated Press:
Genetic Website Subpoenaed In California Serial Killer Probe
Investigators hunting for the so-called Golden State Killer subpoenaed a genetic website last year while investigating an Oregon man who was misidentified as a potential suspect. The revelation that investigators compelled a genetic company to provide user information adds to a growing debate about legal and privacy concerns involving law enforcement and companies whose millions of users submit their DNA to discover their heritage. (5/1)
KPCC:
An Ambitious Attempt To Make Medical Research Not So White
In an attempt to greatly expand the diversity of participants in research into precision medicine and other areas, the National Institutes of Health has launched a 10-year plan to collect the biological, health and environmental information of at least 1 million Americans, particularly people of color. Against a historical backdrop of medical research that often focused on white males, the "All of Us" campaign seeks to recruit a geographically, demographically and medically diverse population. (Faust, 5/1)