While single gene disorders affect a minority of the population, conditions such as heart disease and cancer have a major genetic component and affect a majority of the population. Biobanks and other large-scale research projects seek to identify these genetic factors, in order to develop novel therapies and diagnostic tools. Broad public co-operation and adequate individual consent are required, as well as stringent governance and regulation. This event will explore scientific, clinical, social, psychological and ethical challenges. How will complex genetics impact on primary care? What are the implications of genetic approaches to mental health and behaviour? In complex disorders, genetics is not destiny: what issues are raised for public engagement and education?

Main themes/ topics to be covered are:

• Biobanks and other epidemiological research in complex genetics
• Clinical applications: drugs and diagnostics
• Primary care genetics: impact on individuals and families
• Public engagement: communicating complex genetics to lay audiences

Who should attend this seminar
This event is of interest to clinicians and scientists involved in research and healthcare, regulators and policy makers, lawyers and ethicists, social science researchers, representatives of patient and consumer groups and science communicators from the media and science centres. This is not a specialist medical conference, and attendees do not need to have a background in genetics or medical research.