Due to the efforts of medical scientists involved in the translation of their research into clinical applications, and medical professionals who become involved in the development of treatment algorithms based on genetic test results, genomic health care has improved the health and well-being of many South Africans over recent years. The realisation that DNA is not destiny has paved the way for the development and application of multi-gene genetic tests to not only aid in disease diagnoses, but also in the selection of the appropriate treatment strategy in patients with chronic lifestyle-related diseases.

Oncology is leading the way in personalised medicine, as it is fast becoming the norm for breast cancer patients to have their genetic material tested to select the best treatment option. Pre-selection of medication that can block the effect of a faulty gene or will not work due to the genetic make-up of the patient, paves the way for cost-effective, patient-centered care. Savings can however only be realised if action is taken to reduce recurrence risk or prevent the complications of the disease that is predicted based partly on the genetic test results. To simplify this process, a computer database tool has been developed to assist clinicians with the test selection process and service delivery process, which has been linked to ethically approved health outcomes research projects. This forms part of the Genome Research Innovation initiative launched by the Department of Pathology at the Tygerberg Academic Hospital in April 2008. Please join us for the 5^th Applied Genetics Workshop which promises to provide yet another important step toward the implementation of personalised medicine in daily clinical practice.