Pocono News Section

MyCode Project Helping Researchers

MyCode Project Helping Researchers - Monday, February 23, 2009 at 6:20PM EST

Reported by: Jeremy Deebel
Monday, Feb 23, 2009 @ 06:20pm EST
Danville, Montour County-

A new program at Geisinger is studying the links between patients’ genetics and chronic diseases.

Genetics determine the millions of differences that make each person unique. Doctors also believe that genes affect how our bodies respond to disease.

Associate Chief Research Officer Dr. David Carey explained, “If we had that knowledge early on, we could identify these patients that are at risk, and put them into the right kind of preventative programs.”

The MyCode Project allows Geisinger to collect genetic information and store it in an electronic health record.

Staff scientist Dr. Glenn Gerhard noted, “The samples we collect are obtained as part of routine clinical care, so the patient does not get an extra blood draw, no needles, no anything.”

Patients must consent to having a DNA sample collected. So far, about 20,000 patients, roughly 90% of those asked, have signed up in the program’s first two years.

Gerhard said, “Having a large collection of samples with data, I think it will put Geisinger in a very unique position, perhaps worldwide, to address some very serious diseases.”

A number of safeguards are in place to protect patients’ privacy.

Gerhard added, “Without them, this sort of research would not be possible.”

Geisinger’s 20,000 DNA samples collected are proportionately larger than any other bio-banking facility in the nation.

Researchers believe the MyCode project will completely shift the paradigm of healthcare from reactive to preventative, and further engage patients in their own personal health and wellness.