Rabat – With the help of Australian researchers and clinicians, Australia’s Monash University has launched the world’s first preventive DNA screening that enables the early detection and prevention of cancer and heart disease.
“Young Australians can now access a free DNA saliva test to learn whether they face increased risk of some cancers and heart disease, which can be prevented or treated early if detected, in a world-first DNA screening study,” said the university in a statement.
The project will include the screening of at least 10,000 people aged between 18 and 40 years old to detect genes that increase the risk of certain types of cancer and heart disease, “that often go undetected,” the university added.
“Secure and free,” the DNA testing “can save lives by helping to take preventative action against disease risk” and treat it early, according to the same source. The testing procedure involves placing a sample of the person’s saliva into a small tube and sending it in by mail to the university.
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Only Australians and permanent residents of the country are eligible to participate in the study.
Following the DNA screening, participants at high risk of cancer and heart disease will receive guidance from experts and will be “offered genetic counselling and prevention measures,” including regular scans and check-ups.
In addition to saving lives, the university expects the DNA Screen project to pave the way for a “wide-scale” DNA testing program for the detection and prevention of cancer and heart disease.
Monash University’s Associate Professor Paul Lacaze said: “We hope to identify those at risk while they are young and healthy, not after the fact, and empower them to make more informed decisions about their health.”
Stressing the need for similar DNA testing programs, Lacaze argued that “providing genetic testing based on family history alone is not enough,” as around 90% of people at high risk of diseases are not identified by “family history-based testing.”
