Der Einsatz der Genetik für gesellschaftliche Gesundheitsziele:Entwicklung und Aufgaben von Public Health Genetics

The genome research has made great progress in the past 20 years. On the base of the deciphered human genome, biomedical research has changed in its methods and strategies. The so-called post-genome era offers new insights in gene-environment interactions and the etiology of complex diseases and begans to change the understanding of health and disease. According to this, genetic variation is associated with many, if not all, human diseases and disabilities, including common chronic diseases that have major public health impact. The integration of the knowledge of genetic susceptibity genes in Public Health could help to fullfill its mission to prevent morbidity, mortality, and disability form a wide array of conditions. Recently, however, there is some confusion among health professionals and the public about the role of genetic information in Public Health. Complex and contorversial issues have emerged - such as quality of genetic testing, potential discrimination against individuals and groups, rapid commercialization of genetic tests - and call for discussion. About 10 years ago particulary in the USA and the United Kingdom the discussion of risks and benefits of genetics for population health was established under the term "Public Health Genetics".This present study will give an insight in the history of Public Health Genetics especially in this countries. Beyond this, it examines the contribution of recent genetic technologies for the tasks of Public Health practice such as surveillance and epidemiology. It focuses on the questions: What are the problems arising today and what are the exact contributions of Public Health Genetics. The study yields the result that Public Health Genetics represents a scientific platform to discuss the complex deficits, to develop guidelines and to promote a "good political practice" of an appropriate use of genetic technologies.