Adult Genetics Services

Did you know all human beings are 99.8% the same?
Human genetics is an area of science and medicine that describes how traits are inherited (passed down from one family member to another). The human genome is the complete set of coded instructions that are needed to make a person. These instructions are encoded in deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). Our DNA is coiled into structures called chromosomes. Sections of DNA along each chromosome are referred to as genes. Each gene codes for one specific instruction to help our bodies to grow and develop.

Did you know that humans and mice have approximately the same number of genes?
The Human Genome Project (HGP) was an international project that included Canada and at least 17 other countries. It began in 1990. A major goal of HGP was to map out the entire sequence of the human genome. Once completed in 2003, the project found that the human genome contains about 30, 000 genes. Amazingly, this is about the same number of genes found in the mouse genome!

Currently, scientists are working to figure out what all these genes do. Once we have more information about this, doctors and researchers can learn more about how genes affect your health and diseases. This will hopefully lead to better ways of diagnosing and caring for all patients.

Did you know that UHN has a genetics service for people who are concerned about genetic conditions?
UHN's Adult Genetics Program started in 2000 to help meet the needs of individuals and families who have concerns about genetic conditions. We offer genetic assessments and genetic counselling to diagnose, manage, educate and support individuals with genetic conditions. We see individuals and/or families who:

• may be at risk for a genetic condition, or
• have a genetic condition and require continued genetics care.

We also provide consultation to speciality clinics throughout UHN. We are actively involved in the training of a range of genetics professionals. Our health care team includes doctors, genetic counsellors, clinicians, researchers, and other health professionals who all have a special interest in genetics.