Public health genetics applies genetic and genomic information to improve public health and prevent disease.
Public Health Genetics and Genomics in Your Life- A Public Health Genetics and Genomics Week Case Study

Pre-Conception Screening
Pre-Conception Screening can help future parents learn about their carrier status prior to conception. As a public health genetics effort, screening can be administered to parents who have no previous history of genetic conditions. The screening can help identify a number of genetic conditions including Spinal Muscular Atrophy.
Learn more about pre-conception screening by visiting:
https://vpfw.com/blog/preconception-genetic-testing-101-a-complete-guide/
https://www.genomemedical.com/genetic-testing-pregnancy/preconception-genetic-testing/
Throughout Public Health Genetics and Genomics Week 2023, we will be highlighting different public health genetics and genomics efforts through the stages of an individual’s life. To learn more about public health genetics through the lifespan, view our infographic.
Programs that make up public health genetics and genomics include, but are not limited to: educating healthcare providers, patients and their families, the general public, and policymakers on genetics; providing genetic services (such as newborn screening or cancer screening); providing guidance on laws and regulations that affect individuals with genetic conditions; and much more.
Highlighted below is the framework for public health genetics. Additionally, we have included resources that further describe public health and genetics.
Closed captioning is available in English and Spanish.
Adapted from ASTHO’s “Framework for Public Health Genetics Policies and Practices in State and Local Public Health Agencies”. View the framework here.
Interested in learning more about public health, genetics, or genomics? Check out some great resources below.
Public Health

From the CDC.
Genetics

From the Genetics Home Reference
Learn more:
- Genetics Basics (CDC)
- Genetics Glossary of Terms (CDC)
- Help Me Understand Genetics (Genetics Home Reference)
- Learn.Genetics: Genetic Science Learning Center (University of Utah)
Genomics

Learn more:
- A Brief Guide to Genomics (NHGRI)
- What is Genome? (Genetics Home Reference)
- Student Resources on Genomes (Genome Unlocking Life’s Code)