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Who knew DNA had its own special day? This year, the National Institutes of Health designated April 20 as National DNA Day to commemorate the completion of the Human Genome Project and the discovery of DNA’s double helix shape. The day also serves as an opportunity for the public to learn more about genetics.
The OurGenes, OurHealth, OurCommunity® team took the opportunity to educate BWH employees and patients about the project and encourage participation. They set up shop in the Tower Mezzanine with an education table brimming with pamphlets, pens and even DNA rub-on tattoos.
“National DNA Day is a celebration of how science has progressed in learning how DNA can affect your health,” said Nicole Mayard, senior research assistant for OurGenes. “OurGenes is one example of how the Brigham is making discoveries that may create personalized preventive medicine for our patients in the future.”
OurGenes is an innovative BWH research study that is creating a state-of-the-art tissue and data bank for genetic and health information from thousands of BWH patients. The samples are used to conduct research on causes, prevention and treatment of diseases by taking an all-inclusive approach to health care.
The team estimates that 60 to 70 people visited the OurGenes table on DNA Day, with 31 people signing consent forms to participate.
“I learned about the project and decided to participate because it is a really simple way to help,” said Caitlin McCarthy, clinical research assistant in the Department of Orthopedics. “By giving a little bit of blood, you can help with research in a myriad of fields.”
OurGenes has recruited 2,000 patients since its inception last year. The team will set up another education table during the week of July 23 in the TB clinic on the mezzanine. To learn more about OurGenes or the next outreach event, e-mail ourgenes@partners.org.